How did the philosophy of Epicurus differ from Stoicism?

Epicurus and Stoicism are two prominent philosophical schools of thought that differed significantly in their views on happiness, pleasure, and the pursuit of a virtuous life.

Epicurus:

Epicurus, the founder of Epicureanism, believed that the ultimate goal in life was to achieve happiness through the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. He emphasized the importance of moderate and simple pleasures, such as friendship and tranquility, over excessive desires. Epicurus viewed pleasure as the highest good and advocated for living a life free from fear and anxiety.

Stoicism:

On the other hand, Stoicism, founded by Zeno of Citium, focused on the pursuit of virtue as the key to a good life. Stoics believed in living in accordance with nature and accepting what cannot be changed. They emphasized the development of moral character, self-discipline, and resilience in facing challenges. Stoicism regarded happiness as a byproduct of living a virtuous life, rather than seeking pleasure or avoiding pain.

Differences:

Therefore, the main differences between Epicureanism and Stoicism lie in their perspectives on happiness, pleasure, and the path to a virtuous life. Epicurus prioritized the pursuit of pleasure, while Stoics emphasized virtue and acceptance of the natural order of the world.