
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Norwood Press J.S. Cushing Co.—Berwick & Smith Co. Norwood, Mass., U.S.A.
PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION
THE FIVE GREAT PHILOSOPHIES OF LIFE
CHAPTER I - THE EPICUREAN PURSUIT OF PLEASURE - I SELECTIONS FROM THE EPICUREAN SCRIPTURES
II THE EPICUREAN VIEW OF WORK AND PLAY
III THE EPICUREAN PRICE OF HAPPINESS
IV THE DEFECTS OF EPICUREANISM
V AN EXAMPLE OF EPICUREAN CHARACTER
VI THE CONFESSIONS OF AN EPICUREAN HERETIC
Imagine a guide that lets the great thinkers of antiquity and the teachings of Jesus speak directly to you about how to shape a worthwhile life. This work gathers the essential sayings of Epicurus, the Stoics, Plato, Aristotle, and the Christian Spirit of Love, pairing each with concise commentary that draws out their practical implications. By presenting the original passages alongside clear explanations, the author lets readers hear the philosophers in their own words while navigating the relevance of each doctrine for contemporary concerns.
The Epicurean section explores the pursuit of pleasure as a measured art, while the Stoic portion stresses disciplined self‑control in the face of life's hardships. A Platonic view introduces the idea of ordered hierarchy, and the Aristotelian lens offers a balanced sense of proportion for everyday decisions. Finally, the Christian perspective frames love as the deepest and broadest philosophy, inviting a grateful, helpful appreciation of both the divine and fellow humans. Together these five strands provide a timeless toolkit for personal growth and ethical living.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (372K characters)
Release date
2012-03-07
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1858–1917
Best known as the long-serving president who guided Bowdoin College for more than three decades, he also wrote widely on ethics, education, and the aims of college life. His work blended moral philosophy with a practical, encouraging style that still feels approachable.
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