Hey r/stoicism,

About a week ago, I posted about gratitude and its impact on my life. One of you pointed out (appreciate it ExtensionOutrageous3!) that what I was describing leaned more toward Epicurean values than Stoic ones. First reaction? Slight embarrassment. Second reaction? Curiosity.

I realized I knew little about Epicureanism despite practicing Stoicism regularly for the past 10 years and writing weekly newsletter about how it can improve your life. After diving in, here's what I learned about how these two philosophies approach daily struggles differently.

What I Learned About the Core Differences

Based on my research:

Stoicism:

• Virtue is the only true good; everything else is neutral
• Emotions should be examined through reason
• External events are neither good nor bad in themselves
• Purpose focuses on duty and societal contribution

Epicureanism:

• Pleasure (defined as absence of pain) is the highest good
• Natural desires should be fulfilled simply
• Pain should be minimized for tranquility (ataraxia)
• Friendship and community are essential to a good life

Both aim to help you live well – just through different approaches.

How I See Them Applied to Daily Problems

When Your Boss Criticizes You Unfairly

Stoic Approach: The criticism itself is indifferent. Your boss's opinion is outside your control, your response within it. Focus on whether you did your best work and what virtues you can practice in your response.

Epicurean Approach: Evaluate whether engaging with this criticism brings more pain than pleasure. Address it calmly if needed for job security, but avoid dwelling on it. Instead, focus on activities and relationships that restore your peace of mind.

Dealing with a Rude Person

Stoic Approach: Their rudeness reflects their character, not yours. View them with compassion – they're likely suffering or ignorant of virtue. Use the encounter as an opportunity to practice patience and kindness despite provocation.

Epicurean Approach: Minimize interaction with consistently rude people as they disturb your tranquility. If unavoidable, maintain emotional distance and don't internalize their behavior. Later, seek the company of friends who contribute to your wellbeing rather than detract from it.

Handling Anxiety About the Future

Stoic Approach: Practice negative visualization – imagine and prepare for the feared outcome. Remember future events are outside your control, but your response isn't. Focus on virtuous action in the present.

Epicurean Approach: Determine if your worries involve natural necessities or unnecessary desires. Make simple plans for necessities, then set worry aside. Eliminate unnecessary desires driving anxiety and spend time with friends instead.

My Personal Takeaway

I've realized I've been guilty of unconsciously blending elements from both philosophies. And that's probably okay. While the ancient schools were rivals, I believe modern practitioners can benefit from both:

• From Stoicism: Focus on character over comfort and finding opportunity in adversity
• From Epicureanism: Emphasis on simple pleasures and meaningful friendships

Stoicism is my core, but understanding Epicureanism has helped me recognize when I might be unnecessarily depriving myself of simple joys in the name of "being Stoic."

Again, this is just my understanding of the differences. I'm curious to know if this resonates with anyone or if anyone else found themselves mixing elements from different philosophies?