Main Differences Between Epicurean and Stoic Views of Philosophy

What are the main differences between the Epicurean and Stoic views of the relationship between happiness and pleasure. Which view do you find the more convincing, and why?

In the world of the Greeks there were many philosophies. Two of the most popular were Stoicism and Epicureanism. These fields of knowledge had many differences. The main differences between the Epicurean and Stoic views of the relationship between happiness and pleasure is in Epicurean views to attain happiness you had to indulge in pleasure to the body; while the Stoics believed that our main duty was to act in accord with nature to attain happiness.

Epicureanism was mainly involved with bodily pleasures and pain. The carnal pleasure was the ultimate good while pain of the body was the ultimate evil. Epicureans always were going for the ultimate pleasure in life. To drink wine, to sing songs, and to have carnal associations with women were the main points that the Epicureans used to attain pleasure. Epicurus’ main goal of his philosophy was to avoid any pain to the body.

The Stoics ideal source of happiness was to act along with the source of nature or reason. This was the main source of happiness for Stoics. Since our main duty was to act along with nature it became that the life of duty is the life of happiness. Stoics believed in being virtuous and having good values. They did not indulge in bodily pleasures. Some Stoics denounced marriage and the construction of temples.

Of the two fields of philosophy the one I find most convincing is Stoicism. My reasons are that Epicureanism is mostly dealing with pleasure and pain. There is no middle in the concept of pleasure and pain. In Stoicism they believe in rationality and in acting with a man’s inner nature. It makes more sense to act in regard to your nature because only you know what is best for you. If I believed in Epicureanism, if I was always in pain I would always be miserable because I would feel evil. In Stoicism, at least I would have a chance of reaching a middle ground where I could attain happiness.

So I conclude that in the two fields of knowledge Epicureanism loves pleasure and avoids pain; while the Stoics loved to act according to reason and nature to be happy. Since Epicureanism always loves to wine and dine to be happy is doesn’t work. In order to be happy you have to be drunk, have sex, or always be partying. The Stoics had it right because when you act along with your nature or your rational you are more likely to be happy because you know what your soul wants.