While many today imagine “modern science” to be a morally neutral pursuit of truth by means of experiments and observation, the reality is that the Renaissance, Protestant Reformation and Scientific Revolution of the 16th-17th centuries were three-pronged attack on Catholicism and Aristotelianism, which worked to promote the ancient school of philosophy known as Epicureanism. In this article, I’d like to provide an introduction to Epicurean philosophy, its relationship to Catholicism and how it influenced modern society.
What is Epicureanism?
Epicureanism is a philosophical system that originated in ancient Greece and was founded by the philosopher Epicurus (341-270 BCE). The central idea of Epicureanism is that the ultimate goal of human life is to achieve happiness and pleasure through the avoidance of pain and fear.
Epicureanism holds that happiness is achieved by living a life of tranquility, where one is free from anxiety and fear, and able to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. According to Epicurus, pleasure can be divided into two categories: physical pleasures, such as eating, drinking, and sex, and mental pleasures, such as the satisfaction of achieving a goal or the enjoyment of learning.
Epicureanism emphasizes the importance of moderation in pursuit of pleasure, and rejects excess and extravagance as sources of happiness. It also rejects the pursuit of wealth, fame, and power as sources of happiness, arguing that they often lead to anxiety, stress, and fear.
While some of these elements may sound good, Epicureanism has a dark side.
Epicureanism denies the existence of God and claims that the natural world is composed of uncreated atoms that are constantly in motion and causing change by means of endless evolutions. Epicureanism rejects the existence of the soul, the afterlife and a supernatural world. According to Epicurus, death is simply the end of existence, and there is no material evidence to suggest the existence of an afterlife or a divine being. This belief is known as materialism, which holds that everything in the universe is made up of matter and energy.
Epicureanism and Catholicism
Epicureanism and Catholicism have historically had a contentious relationship, as their views on important philosophical and religious topics clash.
Epicureanism emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure and happiness through moderation and the avoidance of pain and fear. Epicureanism is materialistic and rejects the existence of an afterlife and a supernatural world, and instead focuses on the natural world and the pursuit of knowledge through observation and rational inquiry.
Catholicism, on the other hand, is a religion that places a strong emphasis on the belief in God, the creation of the world, the existence of angels and demons, man being composed of body and soul, the authority of the Church, the efficacy of the Sacraments and the resurrection of the body. It also places a high value on moral and ethical principles, such as the Ten Commandments and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The differences between these two belief systems have led to a complex relationship between Epicureanism and Catholicism. In ancient Rome, Epicureanism was often seen as a threat to traditional religious beliefs and practices, and many early Christians saw Epicureans as immoral and godless. Epicureanism was refuted by the doctrines of Plato and Aristotle, which were embraced by the Catholic Church.
During the Renaissance, the revival of Epicurean philosophy led to renewed tensions with the Catholic Church. Epicurean ideas, such as individualism, the rejection of traditional religious beliefs and the emphasis on empirical observation and rational inquiry, were opposed to the authority of the Church. The Church responded by censoring and banning many works of Epicurean philosophy, and many Epicurean thinkers were persecuted for their beliefs.
Epicurean philosophy was condemned by the Church as heretical, as we find in the Inferno of Dante, where the Epicureans are met in the sixth circle of hell. They were condemned because they “make the soul to be mortal with the body”.
Epicureanism and the Renaissance
The Renaissance, a period of intellectual and cultural growth in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century, was deeply influenced by the ideas and principles of Epicureanism. This influence can be seen in several key areas, including art, literature, philosophy, and science.
One of the most significant contributions of Epicureanism to the Renaissance was its emphasis on the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. This idea had a profound impact on the art of the Renaissance, which celebrated the beauty and sensuality of the natural world. Renaissance artists, such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, were inspired by the natural world and sought to capture its beauty and harmony in their works of art. This emphasis on pleasure and beauty can be seen in the sensuous, humanistic style of Renaissance art, which celebrated the individual and the natural world.
In addition, the Renaissance was also characterized by a renewed interest in classical literature, including the works of the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus. Many Renaissance scholars and thinkers were drawn to Epicureanism because of its emphasis on the pursuit of pleasure and its rejection of religious dogma. Epicureanism was seen as a way of reconciling the pleasures of the world with a belief in reason and the pursuit of knowledge.
Furthermore, the Renaissance was also marked by a renewed interest in the natural sciences, particularly in the fields of anatomy, astronomy, and physics. Epicureanism played a significant role in this scientific revolution, as it emphasized the importance of empirical observation and the rejection of religious dogma. Many Renaissance scientists and thinkers were drawn to Epicureanism because of its emphasis on observation and experimentation, which were seen as key to understanding the natural world.
Finally, Epicureanism also had a significant impact on the philosophy of the Renaissance. Renaissance philosophers, such as Giordano Bruno and Michel de Montaigne, were drawn to Epicureanism because of its emphasis on skepticism and critical thinking. Epicureanism provided a framework for questioning commonly held beliefs and assumptions, which was seen as essential to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
In conclusion, the relationship between Epicureanism and the Renaissance was a profound one, with Epicurean ideas and principles influencing art, literature, philosophy, and science during this important period of intellectual and cultural growth in Europe. The emphasis on the pursuit of pleasure, the rejection of religious dogma, and the importance of observation and critical thinking were all key elements of Epicureanism that helped to shape the Renaissance and its intellectual and cultural achievements.
Epicureanism and the Protestant Reformation
The Protestant Reformation, a religious movement that emerged in Europe in the 16th century, was shaped by a number of intellectual and philosophical influences, including Epicureanism.
One of the influences of Epicureanism on the Protestant Reformation was its emphasis on the individual and the rejection of religious dogma. Epicureanism held that the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain were the highest goals of human life, and that individuals should be free to pursue their own interests and beliefs without interference from the State or the Church. This emphasis on individual freedom and autonomy was an important aspect of the Protestant Reformation, which sought to break free from the authority of the Catholic Church and allow individuals to interpret the Bible for themselves.
Furthermore, the Epicurean emphasis on the importance of human reason also had a positive impact on the Protestant Reformation. The Protestant reformers, such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, were deeply committed to the pursuit of knowledge and the use of reason to understand the Bible and the natural world, as opposed to tradition and authority. They rejected the authority of the Catholic Church and sought to create a more rational and individualistic form of Christianity, which was based on the private interpretation of the Bible rather than the teachings of the Church.
The Epicurean emphasis of material causes led Protestants under its influence to a reject of the Church’s traditional teaching on the Sacraments, most importantly the Eucharist. The notion of “transubstantiation” taught by the Catholic Church was rejected by the Protestants as a superstitious invention because it was repugnant to the senses and human reason. The Protestants also rejected the Church’s teaching on the sacrament of Holy Orders as it was based on the authority of the Church rather than any individual desire or qualifications.
While speaking of a concern for the glory of God and truth of Sacred Scripture, the Protestants were, in fact, driven by the influence of the Epicurean revival that was taking place outside of the Church in secular society.
Epicureanism and the Scientific Revolution
The scientific revolution, which occurred during the 16th and 17th centuries, was a period of profound intellectual and cultural change in Europe, characterized by a new approach to the study of nature and the development of modern science. Epicureanism played an important role in the scientific revolution, as its emphasis on empirical observation, experimentation, and critical thinking laid the foundations for modern scientific inquiry.
Epicureanism, which originated in ancient Greece and was revived during the Renaissance, held that knowledge of the natural world could be gained through observation and experience, rather than through reliance on tradition or authority. This emphasis on empirical observation and experimentation was a key feature of the scientific revolution, as scientists such as Galileo, Bacon, and Newton sought to understand the natural world through systematic observation and experimentation.
Furthermore, the Epicurean emphasis on critical thinking and the rejection of dogma also played an important role in the scientific revolution. Epicureanism held that beliefs should be tested through reason and evidence, and that there was no need to rely on supernatural explanations for natural phenomena. This rejection of dogma and supernaturalism paved the way for the development of modern science, which sought to explain the natural world through observation, experimentation, and reason.
In addition, the Epicurean emphasis on the importance of mathematics and the natural sciences also had a profound impact on the scientific revolution. Epicureanism held that the natural world was governed by laws that could be understood through observation and mathematical analysis, and this idea was embraced by many scientists during the scientific revolution. Newton, for example, used mathematics to describe the laws of motion and gravity, and his work laid the foundations for modern physics.
However, it is important to note that the influence of Epicureanism on the scientific revolution was not uncontested. Some religious and philosophical authorities, particularly in the Catholic Church, were deeply skeptical of the new approach to science and saw it as a challenge to traditional authority and belief. Nevertheless, the ideas of Epicureanism continued to have a profound impact on the development of modern science, and its emphasis on empirical observation, experimentation, and critical thinking continue to be essential features of scientific inquiry today.
In conclusion, the influence of Epicureanism on the scientific revolution was profound, as its emphasis on empirical observation, experimentation, and critical thinking laid the foundations for modern scientific inquiry. Its rejection of dogma and supernaturalism paved the way for the development of modern science, and its emphasis on mathematics and the natural sciences provided a framework for the development of modern physics and other sciences. Although the influence of Epicureanism was not uncontested, its ideas continue to shape the way we think about the natural world and the development of scientific knowledge.
Epicureanism and Democracy
While Epicureanism is not a political philosophy in itself, it does contain some principles that can be applied to democratic societies.
One of the key principles of Epicureanism is the idea that individuals should be free to pursue their own happiness and pleasure, as long as it does not harm others. This principle aligns with the democratic value of individual freedom and autonomy. In a democratic society, individuals are generally free to pursue their own interests and goals, as long as they do not violate the rights of others.
Additionally, Epicureanism restricts the pursuit of knowledge and truth to the use of the senses and human reason. This principle is reflected in democratic societies, where the use of reason and rational discourse is valued in decision-making processes and religious traditions and authority are rejected.
With its rejection of all things supernatural, Epicureanism allows for no belief in the divine authority of earthly rulers, governments or laws. This leads to a secular state which holds all men to be politically equal regardless of differences of virtue and understanding. Such a state is to be governed “by the people and for the people”, with all matters determined by voting, whether directly or indirectly.
Epicureanism and Modern Science
Epicureanism has also had a profound influence on modern science. This is because Epicureanism is a materialist philosophy that emphasizes the importance of observation, skepticism, and critical thinking, all of which are fundamental to the scientific method.
At the heart of Epicureanism is the idea that the universe is composed of atoms in motion, and that everything in the world can be explained in terms of natural causes. This view is consistent with the modern scientific understanding of the world, which holds that the natural world can be explained through the use of empirical observation and experimentation. In other words, Epicureanism provides a philosophical foundation for the scientific method, which relies on the collection of empirical data through observation and experimentation.
Epicureanism also emphasizes the importance of skepticism and critical thinking, and encourages individuals to question commonly held beliefs and assumptions. This approach is also consistent with the scientific method, which relies on the rigorous testing of hypotheses and theories in order to arrive at reliable conclusions. In fact, many of the greatest scientific breakthroughs in history have come about through the questioning of previously accepted beliefs and the willingness to consider alternative explanations.
Furthermore, Epicureanism emphasizes the importance of observation, and holds that knowledge can only be acquired through the use of the senses. This is also a fundamental principle of modern science, which relies on empirical data obtained through observation and experimentation in order to test hypotheses and theories.
Finally, the Epicurean emphasis on the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain has also influenced modern scientific thinking, particularly in the field of medicine. The Hippocratic oath, which is taken by medical practitioners, includes the principle of “primum non nocere” (first, do no harm), which can be seen as an extension of the Epicurean principle of avoiding pain. In addition, the development of anesthesia and pain management techniques in medicine can be seen as an application of the Epicurean principle of pursuing pleasure and avoiding pain.
In conclusion, Epicureanism has had a significant influence on modern science, providing a philosophical foundation for the scientific method and emphasizing the importance of observation, skepticism, and critical thinking. Its emphasis on the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain has also influenced modern medicine. The Epicurean approach to understanding the world is one that is still relevant and valuable to scientific inquiry today.
Epicureanism and Modern Society
Epicureanism has had a significant influence on modern society in a number of ways. Here are some examples:
- Ethics: The Epicurean philosophy of pursuing happiness and pleasure through the avoidance of pain and fear has had a lasting impact on modern ethical thought. This emphasis on personal happiness and fulfillment is reflected in modern ethical theories such as utilitarianism and egoism, which prioritize the individual’s pursuit of happiness and pleasure.
- Science: Epicureanism’s emphasis on rational inquiry and observation of the natural world has had a significant impact on the development of modern science. This is particularly evident in the scientific method, which emphasizes empirical observation and experimentation as the basis for acquiring knowledge.
- Materialism: Epicureanism’s rejection of the existence of an afterlife and a supernatural world has also had an impact on modern society’s worldview. The materialist perspective, which sees everything in the universe as being made up of matter and energy, is influenced by Epicurean thought.
- Hedonism: Epicureanism’s focus on pleasure and happiness has also influenced modern popular culture, particularly in the form of hedonism. Hedonism is the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment as the ultimate goal of life, and it is reflected in modern culture’s emphasis on consumerism, instant gratification, and the pursuit of pleasure and entertainment.
- Psychology: Epicurean philosophy also had an impact on the philosophy of mind, which is concerned with understanding the nature of the mind and consciousness. Epicureans believed that the mind was made up of atoms, which interacted with the physical world to produce thought and consciousness. This idea has influenced modern theories of the mind, particularly in the field of cognitive science.
In conclusion, Epicureanism has had a significant impact on modern society in a number of ways, particularly in the areas of ethics, science, materialism, hedonism, and psychology. The Epicurean emphasis on the pursuit of happiness and pleasure, rational inquiry, and rejection of supernatural beliefs has helped shape modern thought and culture.
Epicureanism and the Classical Liberal Arts Academy
In the Classical Liberal Arts Academy, we reject Epicureanism on all levels.
Theologically, we hold and teach the faith of Catholic Church and offer the Nicene Creed as a clear denial of Epicurean thought. We reject the individualism of Protestantism and believe in the authority of the Catholic Church. We reject the agnosticism of modern scientists and believe that the material world can only be understood in light of the immaterial, which is greater.
Philosophically, we teach Aristotelian (or Peripatetic) philosophy according to the interpretation of St. Thomas Aquinas and the Scholastic Philosophy of the Catholic Church. We believe that the world consists of both material and immaterial beings, the knowledge of which is necessary for true wisdom and understanding. We reject materialistic modern science with its restriction of investigation to the senses and human reason.
Morally, we believe that virtue often requires suffering and that pain is not intrinsically evil. The passion (i.e., suffering) of the Lord Jesus Christ and the saints through history teach us the redemptive value of pain endured for the sake of the common good and our own salvation.
Mr. William C. Michael, Headmaster
Classical Liberal Arts Academy
Phone: (909) 281-7025
mail@classicalliberalarts.com
Not enrolled? Get started today for free!
The Classical Liberal Arts Academy works to research, restore, publish and teach the classical Catholic curriculum that has been enjoyed by wise men and saints through history. We invite you to study in our self-paced online courses and enjoy the benefits of online quizzes, written assignments, progress records and more. Get started with a free 30-day trial.