The Relationship between Suffering and Pleasure in Epicurus’ Thought: A Reinterpretation of a Theory in Philosophical Psychotherapy

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology, Ahar Branch of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

2 PhD in Philosophy (Ancient Greek specialization), University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

3 MSC in Clinical Psychology, Tabriz Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.

Abstract

Epicurus, the fourth-century BCE Greek philosopher, founded his system on the dialectical resolution of the relationship between "pleasure" and "suffering." Contrary to popular interpretations, pleasure in his thought is not hedonistic indulgence but the "absence of bodily pain and mental disturbance." His philosophy is therefore not superficial hedonism but a theoretical foundation for the "care of the self." Employing qualitative content analysis and drawing on the contemporary philosophical psychotherapy approach—which seeks to revive philosophy as an art of living and rational treatment of existential suffering—this article reexamines the relationship between suffering and pleasure in Epicurus' works and demonstrates that his fourfold therapeutic structure (Tetrapharmakos) can be regarded as a premodern "cognitive restructuring" protocol consistent with the principles of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and the modern concept of "stress management." The findings indicate that suffering in this model is not an "absolute evil" but a "diagnostic sign" and a warning of "irrational beliefs." These hidden, false beliefs—fear of the gods, fear of death, and fear of fate—identified through "Epicurean surgery," constitute the primary source of mental disturbance. Eliminating these beliefs is not an escape from suffering but a "passage" toward "enduring tranquility," the common goal of Epicurus' philosophy and contemporary existential psychotherapies.

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References

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Journal of Philosophical Investigations
Volume 20, Issue 56 - Serial Number 56
Articles
Issue 56, Autumn 2026
October 2026
Pages 641-662

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