Epicurus’ Letter to Menoeceus Essay Example

Epicurus’ Letter to Menoeceus Essay 1. What does Epicurus means by saying that pleasure is our ‘primary native good? When Epicurus writes that pleasure is our â€Å"primary native good†, he is implying that what is pleasurable is also ultimately a good thing. Epicurus is referring to pleasure as a state of well-being and not as a temporary state of excitement and sensual stimulus. In other words, to dwell in a tranquil state of mind that is devoid of pain and fear. Epicurus uses our choice/aversion mechanism to illustrate his doctrine. When an Epicurean chooses a particular course of action over other alternatives, the chosen action is almost always a pleasurable one; not because it gives us immediate happiness but creates conditions for lasting peace and inner harmony. Hence, the pleasure offered by the choice is not inherent in the action per se, but in the overall scheme of things and in the sense of emotional and physical well-being in the broad sense of the word. Epicurus also believed that it is intrinsic in us to live a good life – one that is just, balanced and tranquil. This striving to achieve the good life is the prime mover behind human actions and the guiding factor in this pursuit is the pleasure factor. We will write a custom essay sample on Epicurus’ Letter to Menoeceus specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Epicurus’ Letter to Menoeceus specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Epicurus’ Letter to Menoeceus specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer 2. Does Epicurus think that it is good for us to seek every pleasure? What reasons does he give for his view? Epicurus does not think that every pleasure is good for us. In his letter to Menoeceus, he qualifies the following apparently pleasurable experiences as not true pleasure: frivolous merriment, bodily titillation or reveling in good food. These pleasures are enjoyable while they last, but in terms of their effect over a longitudinal analysis, they do more harm than good. Epicurus gives the example of barley bread and water. This apparently modest food offering has in it the potential to not only relieve a person from hunger but also give him/her satisfaction. To experience this pleasure the individual will have to condition himself/herself first and this is done by not indulging in excessive feasting and wining. When someone is pampered with sensual excesses, they will lose the capacity to experience more modest pleasures. But it is the modest pleasures that we are to avail in the long term and hence it is prudent to condition ourselves to experience this. And the best way of conditioning ourselves is through moderating our sensual experiences. Epicurus also refers to other similar examples such as unscrupulous debauchery in the form of indiscriminate sexual intercourse, numerous drinking parties and consuming exotic cuisine; all of which will ultimately lead to painful situations in the future in the form of deprivation, longing and boredom. Hence, it is important to properly understand what Epicurus means by ‘pleasure’ and an Epicurean will not seek every kind of pleasure. 3. Does Epicurus think it is possible to lead a virtuous but unpleasant life? Epicurus’ doctrine does not differentiate between that which is virtuous and that which is a path to pleasure. Conversely, any action of ours that is based on a striving for pleasure is undeniably virtuous. According to Epicurus, â€Å"It is impossible to live the pleasant life without also living sensibly, nobly and justly and conversely it is impossible to live sensibly, nobly and justly without living pleasantly†. Hence the author is equating those cherished virtues of sensibility, nobility and justice to the concept of pleasure. This assertion can be extended to mean that only that which is sensible which brings greater pleasure; only that which is just which is informed by a sense of pleasure; only that is noble which is based on our primary instinctive good. To support this doctrine, Epicurus poses to the reader a few rhetoric questions of the order â€Å"Can you think of anyone more moral than the person who has devout beliefs about the gods, who is consist ently without fears about death, and who has pondered man’s natural end?†, etc. 4. Do you agree with him? The central doctrines of the Epicurean system of philosophy are grounded on human universalities and observations of common human behavior that it is difficult to disagree with any of them. We are likely to benefit if we were to embrace the Epicurean doctrines as guidelines for conducting our own lives. In some ways, the Epicurean thought has semblances to Indian philosophy and Asceticism. But Asceticism talks nothing of pleasure and in that it is markedly distinct from Epicureanism which can be applied in the context of everyday life. On the other extreme, it is a mistake to equate Epicureanism to Hedonism, for the latter is prone to lead to pleasures based on mental perversions. Hence, it is my personal conviction that an Epicurean way of life, having based its doctrines on principles of prudence and moderation, will be a virtuous life.

Run Lola Run The Reasons essays

Run Lola Run The Reasons essays I sometimes think about that one day in April last year. I wonder if I had left one minute earlier. I would have passed the intersection of 140th St. and Pennock St. without incident and arrived at my destination on time and intact. Or if I would have left one minute later.....what would have happened? Would I have avoided that suburban and stayed out of the emergency room that night? Would I have had way too much free time without swimming to think about college and actually considering going to St. Olaf for the first time? Would I have spent a lot of time with that pretty little red head that I started dating at that time and am still dating to this day? Well it appears that I believe that everything happens for a reason. While all I have done to voice this opinion is write this paper, Tom Tykwer wrote the script for the movie Run Lola Run. This movie goes into great detail to prove its point about fate and how every action is dependent on the last. The movie goes throug h three possible scenarios lasting about 20 minutes of real time in the movie. The only difference in her experience is the few second delay of her departure from her apartment complex. In each possible scenario, Lola passes people and interacts with them in different ways. Whether she causes a car accident, saves somebodys life, or starts a relationship, every little move she makes, alters the future of an innocent by standard. After some interactions, snapshots of that persons future are shown and are different in ach scenario each time. Even with a simple bump, Lola has altered these peoples futures and totally changed their lives. In the first scenario, Lola bumps into the woman who is pushing a stroller. The snapshots show her grim future as she has her son taken away from her. If that isnt bad enough, she kidnaps another baby and takes it as her own. The next scenario, Lola gives her a slightly bigger bump an...

The Most Popular Countries as Tourist Destinations

The Most Popular Countries as Tourist Destinations Tourism to a location means big money is coming to town. Its No. 3 in the biggest economic sectors in the world, according to the report from  the UN World  Tourism Organization. International travel has been on the rise for decades, as increasing numbers of locations invest in bringing people in to visit and spend money. From 2011 to 2016, tourism grew faster than  international trade of goods. The industry is only expected to grow (the report projects out to 2030). Peoples increased purchasing power, improved air connectivity around the world, and more affordable travel overall are reasons for the increase in people visiting other countries. In many developing nations, tourism is the top industry and is expected to grow twice as fast as growth in more mature economies with established tourist spots and a high number of visitors each year already.   Where Are People Going? Most tourists visit places in the same region as their home country. Half of the worlds international arrivals went to Europe in 2016 (616 million), 25 percent to the Asia/Pacific region (308 million), and 16 percent to the Americas (nearly 200 million).  Asia and the Pacific had the biggest tourist number gains in 2016 (9 percent), followed by Africa (8 percent), and the Americas (3 percent). In South America,  the zika virus in some countries didnt affect travel to the continent overall. The Middle East saw a 4 percent drop in tourism. Snapshots and Top Gains France, though at the top of the list for receiving tourists, had a bit of a drop (2 percent) following what the report called security incidents, likely referring to the Charlie Hebdo and simultaneous concert hall/stadium/restaurant attacks of 2015, as did Belgium (10 percent). In Asia, Japan had its fifth straight year of double-digit growth (22 percent), and Vietnam saw an increase of 26 percent over the previous year. Growth in Australia and New Zealand is attributed to increased air capacity. In South America, Chile in 2016 posted its third straight year of double-digit growth (26 percent). Brazil saw an increase of 4 percent due to the Olympics, and Ecuador had a slight drop after its April earthquake. Travel to Cuba increased by 14 percent. Former President Barack Obama had eased restrictions for U.S. travelers, and the first flights from the mainland touched  down there in August 2016. Time will tell what President Donald Trumps changes to the rules will do to Cubas tourism from the United States. Why Go? Just over half of the visitors traveled for recreation; 27 percent were people visiting friends and family, traveling for religious purposes  such as a pilgrimage, receiving health care, or for other reasons; and 13 percent reported traveling for business. A bit more than half of the visitors went by air (55 percent) than land (45 percent).   Whos Going? The leaders in countries residents heading elsewhere as tourists included China, the United States, and Germany, with the amount spent by tourists also following that order. The following is a listing of the 10 most popular countries as destinations for international travelers.  Following each tourist destination country is the number of international tourist arrivals for 2016. Around the world, international tourist numbers reached 1.265 billion people in 2016 ($1.220 trillion spent), up from 674 million in 2000 ($495 billion spent).   Top 10 Countries by Number of Visitors France: 82,600,000United States: 75,600,000Spain:  75,600,000  China:  59,300,000Italy: 52,400,000United Kingdom:  35,800,000Germany:  35,600,000Mexico:  35,000,000*Thailand: 32,600,000Turkey: 39,500,000 (2015) Top 10 Countries by Amount of Tourist Money Spent United States: $205.9 billion  Spain: $60.3  billion  Thailand: $49.9  billionChina: $44.4  billionFrance: $42.5 billionItaly: $40.2 billionUnited Kingdom: $39.6  billionGermany: $37.4  billionHong Kong (China): $32.9  billionAustralia: $32.4  billion * Much of Mexicos total can be attributed to residents of the United States visiting; it captures American tourists due to its proximity and its favorable exchange rate.

Tourism in California and the Environmental Concerns Essay

Tourism in California and the Environmental Concerns - Essay Example Initially, people were inspired by the California dream and left their assets behind and started their journey in search of California they dreamt off. When they reached there, they had to face despair and disappointment as things were not as they perceived it to be. These people then had to go back without any memories or anything to show; at times people did not even reach back safely. The image of California being extravagant and adored is fairly a very recent picture and if one goes in depth of it then there's a very deep history attached to it. The present state of California is because of the hard work and efforts of the miners who were in search of the California dream. Through their struggle, California has been founded And has been transforming its state resulting in the steady ongoing of the heritage of this dream. California dream is not just about this place but it contains an amalgamation of the people and the dream which they are living. This dream is not just about the positives aspects of California but it also contains many different puzzles that need to be fit together in order to see this dream turn to reality. California is a hub of activities with various opportunities that bring numerous opportunities and hence guarantees a successful way to lead a life for all those who reside in California. It is also known as a place where the sun is endless. California is about hard work, efforts, beauty, beautiful tanned women, bright sunny days, and breezy nights. California is one of the most densely polluted countries of the world. Pollution has literally damaged the entire state in such a way that its impact is very obvious. Tourism is an essential part of the California economy. California is one of those countries that are a major tourist attraction; California has the honour of housing the home of all legendary actors that is Hollywood. From amazing shopping malls to Hollywood and an amazing blend of various restaurants, California offers every thing that a tourist wants during vacations. Tourism in California is very expensive.

Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 15

Management - Essay Example The constitution of Italy was adopted in 1947, following a referendum on 2 June 1946 that abolished the Italian monarchy and established Italy as a parliamentary republic. The constitution took effect January 1, 1948. The 1948 constitution created the position of President to fulfil the ceremonial roles of the Italian monarchy. The country is divided into regions, provinces and municipalities. The are 20 regions, which are divided into 95 provinces.   For quite a long time Australia and Italy has good relations with each other which are underpinned by strong community ties which has led to the development of strong trade and investment and cultural links amongst the two countries. Many bilateral agreements have been concluded between Australia and Italy covering many areas such as culture, double taxation, air services, economic and commercial cooperation, reciprocal social security and health care benefits, and film co-production. Many memorandums of understanding (MoUS) have been signed in areas such as science and technology cooperation, defense materiel, defense industry, motor vehicle safety certification, game meat exports and trade cooperation. The relations between the two countries can be proved by the number of high level visits made by the country representatives. Foreign Minister Alexander Downer visited Rome for bilateral meetings with Foreign Minister Massimo D’Alema, the Minister for European Policies and International Trade, Emma Bonino, and the Minister for the Interior Giuliano Amato.   An Australian Parliamentary Delegation headed by President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Paul Calvert, visited in 2005, and met with the Italian Presiding officers.  The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Neil Andrew, met his Italian counterpart Pierferdinando Casini in Rome during the summer of 2003. The Prime Minister, John Howard, visited Italy in July 2002, meeting then

Religion and Politics Essay examples -- Papers Church State Separation

Religion and Politics Both liberals and conservatives have become quite adept at mixing religion and politics in our current society. One also continues to observe an ongoing practice of civil religion demonstrated by presidents and office-seekers on both the left and right. Generally, the leftist merger of religion and politics has received greater social acceptability because it has been cloaked in such rights' causes as civil rights, women's rights, or economic rights (the social distribution of wealth). The advocating of these rights issues have provided an appearance of transcending religion, keeping the left relatively free from criticism of any church and state overlap. Christian Conservatives, however, have found it more difficult to reasonably combine faith and politics because they have more overtly recognized that their political positions are grounded on faith assumptions. This has resulted in numerous attacks by both non-Christians and Christians alike against the conservative attempt to merge religion and politics. Three arguments have been used most frequently against the conservative mixture of religion and politics. In what follows each of these arguments is stated and then refuted. The first argument is that politics is too worldly. The essence of the argument is that politics is part of this world's system, and Christ clearly taught His followers to "love not the world," and to flee from worldly activities. There is a danger of becoming caught up in th... ...hermore, in the Bible there is much political activity by God's servants. The judges and kings ruled under God. The prophets and Moses were quite political. Daniel served in the civil governments of Babylon and Persia. Joseph governed in Egypt. The Apostles spoke of following God's rules rather than men's. In conclusion, to be obedient to Christ requires political activity. Jesus is quite clear about the need to overcome social injustices. If Christ tells us to confront the forces of evil, but society tells us not to, and even makes a law against bringing religion into politics, then who should we follow, the state or Christ? In the broadest sense, we are called to political activity because we are responsible to apply Christian principles and standards to all areas of our society, and politics is one of these areas.

Bloom’s Taxonomy of Education Essay

Benjamin Bloom developed Bloom’s Taxonomy in 1956. It identifies three domains: cognitive, affective, and psychomotor; utilized to evaluate knowledge adapted by the learner. Each domain has categories that measure the level of the learners understanding. This paper gives a brief overview of each domain and explains how Bloom’s taxonomy applies to education and its use in nursing education. Blooms Taxonomy is a classification of learning objectives divided into three categories. The first category is cognitive. The skills in cognitive involve knowledge, comprehension, critical thinking, and mental skills. In nursing education this category is assessed with the patient in exhibiting memory of previously learned material. For example, evaluating the patient with diabetes with a question, such as what are the health benefits of eating a low sugar diet and daily exercise to control blood sugar. The second category is Affective. The skills in affective revolves around receiving, responding, valuing, organizing, and internalizing the information given to them. In nursing education this category the learners should be expected to be attentive to and be aware of learning, they listen with respect and remember the new information. Learners may experience acceptance or become committed to new information, learners also organize their values with prioritization. The learner should actively participate in learning. For example, asking questions and participates in discussion. Another example in the affective domain; how the diabetic deals with the fact that they have a disease that will need to be closely monitored for the rest of their life. The nurse will need to assess the alertness of the diabetic. Is the diabetic ready to listen to information about the disease and how to manage it? The third category is psychomotor. The skills in psychomotor domain are imitation, manipulation, precision, articulation, and naturalization. In nursing  education in this category the learner is expected to use sensory clues to imitate motor activity, follow instructions and practice after receiving information, the learner should be able to work unsupervised. The learner becomes more exacting in the process; they are able to do something correctly. The learners’ skills are developed and can modify actions to fit changes. The learner has a high level of routine skills without thinking too much about it. For example, the learner is able to detect the proper site for finger stick blood sugar testing, is able to withdraw an accurate dose of insulin with a syringe from a multi-dose vial, and is able to adjust glucose dosage to restore safe blood sugar level. In conclusion, many students are not taught to use critical thinking in contrast Blooms Taxonomy helps students including registered nurses to use higher level of thinking to improve learning. As registered nurses, we are life-long educators to our patients; in order to have success in our teaching we must utilize Blooms Taxonomy to assess our patient knowledge on what they are being taught. Reference Bloom’s Taxonomy of learning domains. Retrieved from http://www.nwlink.com