Epicureanism and Scientific Debates. Antiquity and Late Reception: Volume I. Language, Medicine, Meteorology

This edited collection explores Epicurean scientific thought, showing that it founded a rigorous and coherent conception of knowledge. It examines the contribution of Epicureanism in language, medicine, and meteorology, including studies on the nature of human language, the relationship between Epicureanism and ancient medicine, meteorological phenomena, and the reception of Epicurus' legacy. Contributors include Julie Giovacchini, Francesca Masi, Dino De Sanctis, Chiara Rover, Enrico Piergiacomi, David Leith, Vincenzo Damiani, David Konstan, Voula Tsouna, Jurgen Hammerstaedt, Craig Martin, and Frederik Bakker.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2023
Publisher: Leuven University Press

Epicureanism is a multifaceted philosophy that encompasses not only the defense of pleasure but also a profound exploration of science and knowledge. This edited collection delves into unexplored avenues of studying Epicurean scientific thought, a field that has hitherto received limited attention. It critically engages with existing theories while presenting fresh perspectives on this understudied domain. The book demonstrates that the philosophy of Epicurus and his followers, spanning from antiquity to the classical age, established a rigorous and coherent conception of knowledge.

In the first part of this two-volume set, the focus is on examining the contribution of Epicureanism in the fields of language, medicine, and meteorology. The book offers a revitalized portrayal of Epicureanism, featuring studies on the nature of human language, the linguistic aspects of scientific discourse, the relationship between Epicureanism and ancient medicine, the study of meteorological phenomena, and the reception of Epicurus' legacy in the works of Gassendi.

Contributors to this volume include esteemed scholars from various institutions, including the CNRS (Paris), Universita Ca' Foscari Venezia, Universita degli Studi della Tuscia, Universitat Hamburg/MCAS, Universitat Zurich, University of Exeter, New York University, Universitat Ulm, and UC Santa Barbara. Their expertise and insights enrich the discussions and provide valuable perspectives on the topics explored.

Epicureanism, with its emphasis on the pursuit of happiness and the rejection of excessive desire, has had a profound influence on the development of Western philosophy and culture. This edited collection contributes to our understanding of Epicurean scientific thought and its relevance in contemporary discussions. By exploring new avenues of inquiry and engaging critically with existing theories, it sheds light on the enduring legacy of Epicureanism and its profound impact on the fields of language, medicine, and meteorology.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462703735