The Pleasure Principle

In our troubled world, looking back to ancient wisdom can shed light on fresh solutions.

For years, many of us have upheld the Stoic belief in ‘no pain, no gain.’ But when the pace of modern life and the demands of jobs and family overwhelm us, punishing exercise regimes, productivity apps and early morning starts may not be the best solution.

According to the pleasure-centric philosophy of Epicureanism, life can be good without great sacrifice. By consciously practicing ‘choice and avoidance’ – by being strategic about our recreational, professional and familial pursuits – we can live with less fear and regret. By understanding our place in a world that came about by chance, we can gain greater perspective on our role within it and where our priorities should lie.

No honest philosopher can give you a formula for happiness, but in The Pleasure Principle, Professor Catherine Wilson explores how Epicureanism can provide a framework for thinking about life’s key issues, including family, death, politics, religion, wealth, science, and love.

About the author

Catherine Wilson is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and has taught philosophy and history of science in Britain, Germany, the USA and Canada. She has two children and divides her time between London and New York. This is her first book for a general audience.