The comparison between Epicureanism and Pyrrhonism reveals how two seemingly different philosophies can be entangled through shared epistemological concerns. The irony is that, while Epicureans sought tranquility through the certainty of sensory experience and Pyrrhonists through the suspension of judgment, both arrive at remarkably similar practical conclusions: live by appearances, avoid dogma, and cultivate a form of ataraxia. The ancient disputes, then, seem less about how to live wisely and more about the philosophical scaffolding used to justify that wisdom. In this way, Epicurus and Pyrrho were like two travelers describing the same landscape—one through affirmations, the other through negations—yet both guiding their followers toward the same serene horizon.
Great read! I do recall somewhat realizing that Pyrrhonism and Epicureanism are similar, but did not fully see it until now!
The comparison between Epicureanism and Pyrrhonism reveals how two seemingly different philosophies can be entangled through shared epistemological concerns. The irony is that, while Epicureans sought tranquility through the certainty of sensory experience and Pyrrhonists through the suspension of judgment, both arrive at remarkably similar practical conclusions: live by appearances, avoid dogma, and cultivate a form of ataraxia. The ancient disputes, then, seem less about how to live wisely and more about the philosophical scaffolding used to justify that wisdom. In this way, Epicurus and Pyrrho were like two travelers describing the same landscape—one through affirmations, the other through negations—yet both guiding their followers toward the same serene horizon.
Awesome read! Thanks.
Great comparison, what are the differents in the area of ethics ? Is suspending judgment enough for living a „good“ life ?