The Problem of the Immortality of the Soul in Epicurus

Authors

  • Adam Drozdek
Keywords: Epicurus, atomism, eschatology, immortality, the soul

Abstract

In the atomistic system of Epicurus, the gods are immortal beings. However, the human soul is mortal, although the mind has a similar atomic composition as the gods’ bodies. The chapter investigates the problem why the gods are immortal and the human soul cannot be immortal. The immortality of the gods is due to the supra-atomic isonomia principle which requires even proportion of immortal and mortal beings. The human soul cannot be immortal probably because the memory of imperfections of earthly life would eventually be detrimental to the integrity of the soul.

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How to Cite
Drozdek, A. (2010). The Problem of the Immortality of the Soul in Epicurus. Myrtia, 25, 43–52. Retrieved from https://revistas.um.es/myrtia/article/view/131581
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