Question of the Day Sunday, November 10, 2024

The thinker Epicurus developed Epicureanism in the 4th century BCE. Epicurus and his followers challenged mundane beliefs of the time by claiming that all events unfolded according to physical rules, without any intervention from the gods—but with occasional random swerves of atoms. This stance was highly controversial in Greece’s polytheistic society. Epicurus also stated that people could achieve happiness by avoiding suffering and enjoying natural pleasures, which led many to perceive him as endorsing self-indulgence. As a result, the word “epicurean” is used to this day to describe someone who enjoys luxury and decadence, especially in the realm of fine dining.

Which choice most effectively conveys the main topic of this paragraph?

A) One of the foremost of these philosophical movements was Epicureanism. B) Of course, thinkers in other parts of the world also developed many great philosophies. C) These schools often argued with one another, each claiming to have the best doctrine. D) Many of these philosophers held positions that Greek society considered unpopular and controversial.