Exploring Hellenistic Philosophies of Life: A Modern Perspective
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Introduction to Hellenistic Philosophies
You may have encountered numerous discussions about adopting Stoicism as a guiding philosophy, especially on platforms like Medium. However, Stoicism is just one of the many philosophical systems that thrived during the ancient Greco-Roman period. Other Hellenistic philosophies provide valuable insights worth exploring. These philosophies were not merely abstract concepts; they served as practical guides for achieving the best possible life. Even if you don’t wish to adopt one as your personal philosophy, they offer thoughtful perspectives on navigating life's challenges.
In ancient times, individuals often structured their lives around their chosen philosophical framework, which, in many ways, resembled religious devotion more than modern philosophical thought. While they lacked formal clergy and worship practices, they had teachers, followers, clubs, and deep, meaningful discussions about ethics and the art of living.
The significance of Hellenistic philosophy extends deeply into Western culture. Not only did it lay the groundwork for Western thought, but it has also experienced two major revivals associated with crises of faith. The first revival occurred during the Renaissance, stemming from doubts about the Catholic Church and the rise of Protestantism. The second revival is currently underway, linked to the declining adherence to Christianity in the West.
Among the Hellenistic philosophies, some have garnered more attention than others, with active movements for revival, while others remain primarily of intellectual interest. This article provides a brief overview of each school and suggestions for further exploration. As these schools often influenced one another, they are best understood chronologically rather than by their contemporary popularity.
Modern Interest in Hellenistic Philosophies
If you’re interested in those philosophies currently receiving the most attention as modern life philosophies, you should focus on Stoicism, Epicureanism, and Pyrrhonism. Additionally, there is growing interest in reviving Neoplatonism, Academic Skepticism, Aristotelianism, and Cynicism.
Platonism
Platonism is complex and has undergone various interpretations over time. It evolved significantly during the Hellenistic period and was more an institutional entity—The Academy in Athens—than a cohesive doctrine. While the writings of Plato remain intact, influencing subsequent philosophical thought, modern interest in Platonism is largely academic, lacking enthusiasm for revival as a personal philosophy.
Cynicism
Cynicism embodies a lifestyle rather than a strict doctrine. The Cynics lived ascetically, renouncing material wealth and status, and valuing moral virtue and free speech above all else. Though current interest in Cynicism is limited, its lifestyle has historically attracted a small, dedicated group of individuals.
More about ancient Cynicism
Recommended books: Cynics
Online discussion groups: Reddit, Facebook
Cyrenaicism
Founded by Aristippus, a student of Socrates, Cyrenaicism emphasized personal experience as the basis of knowledge. Happiness was seen as achievable through pleasure, with a focus on the present. However, interest in this philosophy today remains minimal.
More about ancient Cyrenaicism
Recommended books: The Birth of Hedonism: The Cyrenaic Philosophers and Pleasure as a Way of Life
Online discussion groups: Reddit, Facebook
Aristotelianism
Aristotle, a student of Plato, rejected idealism for a more empirical approach. He sought to identify the traits common among those who lived fulfilling lives, concluding that a balance of moral virtue and various worldly attributes is essential. While Aristotelian thought is widely discussed, it lacks a strong following in contemporary life.
More about ancient Aristotelianism
Recommended books: Aristotle's Way: How Ancient Wisdom Can Change Your Life, The Nicomachean Ethics
Online discussion groups: Reddit, Facebook
Pyrrhonism
Founded by Pyrrho, Pyrrhonism draws influence from Buddhist thought and aims to achieve ataraxia—a state of mental tranquility. This philosophy encourages individuals to investigate their beliefs and recognize how certain thoughts can disturb their peace. Interest in Pyrrhonism is modest, yet it retains a dedicated group of modern practitioners.
More about ancient Pyrrhonism
Modern revival: Pyrrhonism.org
Recommended books: Pyrrho's Way: The Ancient Greek Version of Buddhism
Online discussion groups: Reddit, Facebook
Stoicism
Stoicism seeks to provide a path similar to Cynicism but without strict asceticism, allowing practitioners to lead fulfilling lives while cultivating a state of apathia—freedom from emotional disturbance through reason. This philosophy has seen a significant resurgence in popularity today.
More about ancient Stoicism
Modern revival: Traditional Stoicism, Modern Stoicism, What Is Stoicism, Daily Stoic
Recommended books: A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy, How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life
Online discussion groups: Reddit, Facebook
Epicureanism
Epicurus merged materialism with the pursuit of ataraxia and pleasure, advocating for a balanced lifestyle free from superstitions. His philosophy remains widely embraced today, appealing to a broad audience.
More on ancient Epicureanism
Modern revival: Society of Epicurus
Recommended books: Tending the Epicurean Garden, Epicurus And The Pleasant Life: A Philosophy of Nature
Online discussion groups: Reddit, Facebook
Academic Skepticism
Emerging shortly after Plato's death, Academic Skepticism shifted focus away from Platonic ideals, emphasizing plausibility over absolute knowledge. This philosophy has seen a decline but is undergoing a revival led by modern philosophers.
More on ancient Academic Skepticism
Recommended books: On Academic Skepticism
Neoplatonism
Though technically post-Hellenistic, Neoplatonism arose as a new interpretation of Platonism, offering a path to personal salvation. Interest in this philosophy is strong, but no organized revival has emerged.
More on ancient Neoplatonism
Recommended books: Neoplatonism
Online discussion groups: Reddit, Facebook