Epicurus Philosophy Quiz

Epicurus' concept introducing random, sideways movement of atoms, in addition to their downward pull.

The coming together of atoms, necessary for the formation of larger objects.

The idea that the future is predetermined by the present and the laws of nature.

Epicurus' assertion that a random atomic swerve is essential for human choice and free will; it breaks the chain of fate.

Properties like sweetness or whiteness that we perceive through our senses.

Sensible qualities (like taste/colour) are only apparent, not inherent in atoms themselves; they depend upon interaction.

Our unique perception of sensible properties, shaped by factors like personal experience.

Doubt about the accuracy of sensory perception due to its ability to deceive.

Individual atoms lack properties like sweetness or whiteness, but they combine to create such properties in larger objects.

Properties that apply to large objects, not individual components (like atoms).

Properties that depend on the relationship between things, not inherent to a single thing.

Explanations of natural phenomena that are based on causal interaction, not purpose or design.

Explanations of natural phenomena that rely on a goal or purpose.

A process where certain traits become more common in a population over time, due to their impact on survival and reproduction.

Properties that are inherent to an object, without needing regard to other objects or their relations.

A philosophy that does not attribute natural phenomena to gods or supernatural forces.

Epicurus believed the mind is a physical part of the body, composed of atoms.

Epicurus proposed the mind is made of fire, air, wind, and a special 'nameless' element.

Images thrown off by objects, which the senses perceive.

Epicurus believed the primary mind was in the chest, with a spreading 'spirit'.

Perception is the interaction of object atoms (eidola) with sense organs.

Epicurus argued that death is the end of the mind, as body atoms disperse.

Epicurus believed that qualities like sweetness are real properties of objects, not illusions.

The mind and spirit in Epicurus' philosophy have a similar function to the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Physical pleasure and pain concern the present, while mental pleasure and pain involve thoughts about the past and future, like memories and fears.

Fear about the future, especially fear of the gods and death, are Epicurus's biggest worries about happiness.

Tranquility is a state of freedom from disturbance achieved by removing fear about the future.

Pleasure comes from getting what you want, and pain comes from not getting what you want.

Two strategies for dealing with desires: fulfill them or eliminate them.

Epicurus classifies desires into natural/necessary, natural/non-necessary, and vain/empty desires.

These desires are essential for life, easily satisfied, and hard to eliminate (e.g., food, shelter).

These desires are difficult to satisfy and not natural (e.g., power, wealth, fame).

Justice is valuable due to its usefulness to society. It's about avoiding punishment and pain, essential for maintaining social order and preventing chaos.

Just laws are those useful for the society. Not all societal laws are automatically just; justice depends on their utility for society's well-being.

Friendship is highly valued by Epicurus because it provides security and pleasure. Strong trust and mutual well-being are essential elements.

Epicurus suggests fear of punishment is primarily a tool to manage those who might act unjustly. It's a social control measure.

A person who understands the usefulness of justice and avoids harmful actions because unnecessary actions generally lead to negative outcomes.

Epicurus focused on combating the fear of death by highlighting the separation of consciousness from the body and the impossibility of further experience.

Laws are considered just when they are useful to the members of a society. The usefulness of a law can change based on society or time.

Epicurus believed friendship is instrumental to achieving ataraxia (tranquility) because it enhances security and pleasure, contributing positively to a tranquil life.

Epicurus' argument that death is not harmful. Because death is annihilation, it cannot be bad for anyone – neither the living nor the dead, since the dead no longer exist.

The complete ceasing of existence; in Epicurus' view, death is the complete disintegration of the body's atoms.

Epicurus' belief that, because death is annihilation, it has no effect on us either at or after death.

Epicurus' thought experiment contrasting pre-birth non-existence with post-death non-existence. Since pre-birth wasn't bad, neither is post-death.

Epicurus believed that fear of death primarily stems from anxiety about an unpleasant afterlife.

Epicurus' belief that the mind, like the body, is composed of atoms; upon death, these atoms disperse.

Epicurus argued that death only affects the dead, who do not exist to be harmed.

Epicurus believed that the fear of death, if it causes present pain, should be overcome rather than entertained. Focus on current life.