ARISTIPO: El Hedonismo y el placer. La escuela cirenaica. 22
A Brief History of Philosophy: Arístipo and the Cyrenaic School
Introduction to Arístipo
- Arístipo, a founder of the Cyrenaic school, lived in 4th century BC Greece, born into a wealthy family in Cyrene (modern-day Libya).
- He traveled to Athens to study under prominent philosophers, becoming a disciple of Socrates, who greatly influenced Western culture.
Key Concepts of the Cyrenaic School
- The Cyrenaic school emphasized that pleasure and immediate satisfaction are the only true goods; virtue is relative to each individual.
- Despite its decline over time, the ideas of Arístipo significantly impacted later hedonistic thought and ethical philosophy.
Hedonism According to Arístipo
- Arístipo believed happiness comes from immediate pleasures rather than long-term consequences; he posited that pleasure is the sole true good.
- His view on satisfaction extended beyond physical desires to include intellectual and emotional joys; he advocated for pursuing genuinely satisfying pleasures.
Ethical Stance
- He argued against absolute truths or universal morals, suggesting individuals should seek personal happiness based on their circumstances.
- While his philosophy may seem superficial, he stressed conscious pursuit of pleasure without excesses that lead to unhappiness.
Lifestyle and Anecdotes
- Known for an extravagant lifestyle, Arístipo wore expensive clothing and consumed fine food but was also recognized for his intelligence.
- An anecdote illustrates his wisdom: when insulted in public, he remarked that insults reflect more on the insulter than himself.
Lessons on Generosity
- Another story shared by Epictetus highlights generosity; when asked about happiness from a new dress, he suggested giving it away could bring greater joy through helping others.
Conclusion on Arístipo's Legacy