Stoics, Epicureans and Sceptics: An Introduction to Hellenistic Philosophy

ISBN-13: 9780415110358 / Angielski / Miękka / 1996 / 172 str.

R. W. Sharples

Opis

This study examines the principal doctrines of the Stoics, Epicureans and various sceptical traditions from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC to about 200 AD. The discussion is arranged by topics rather than schools, in order to bring out the underlying issues and make clear what the different schools have in common and how they differ. At the same time the coherence of each system as a whole is emphasized. The Hellenistic philosophers and schools of philosophy are emerging from the shadow of Plato and Aristotle and are increasingly studied for their intrinsic philosophical value. Yet, they are not only interesting in their own right, but also form the intellectual background of the late Roman Republic. A thorough understanding of them is therefore also essential for the appreciation of Latin thought and literature. This work provides an introduction for all who are interested in understanding the significance of this period of ancient thought.

Spis treści

Preface Abbreviations 1. Hellenistic Philosophy: Aims, Context, Personalities, Sources 2. How do we know anything? 3. What is reality? 4. What are we? 5. How can I be happy? 6. What about other people? 7. Epilogue Suggestions for further reading Index

O autorze

R W Sharples holds a personal Chair in Classics at University College, London. He has published widely in Classical Studies and Philosophy.