Welcome back to this mini-series on mindfulness techniques for revision. In our previous post, we explored methods to reduce stress during exam season. Today, we’re delving into a topic that’s fascinated scholars for centuries: the philosophy of happiness. 

From the bustling agora of Athens to the grand forums of Rome, we’re drawing wisdom from ancient philosophical schools of thought to inspire and motivate students through challenging times… whether that’s mid-year tests, essay deadlines, final exams or just about anything else.

Think of them as your specialist philosophical pep-squad.

So without further ado, let’s uncover lessons from ancient philosophy and put them to good use with some practical study tips. 

Ancient Perspectives on Happiness: Why was happiness so important for the Greeks and Romans?

The quest for happiness has been a central theme for philosophers throughout history. From the Stoics to Epicureans, Platonists to Aristotelians, each school of thought offered its unique perspective on what constitutes a fulfilling life.

But why?

Well, in the tumultuous times of antiquity, marked by wars, political upheaval and societal unrest – everyday life was uncertain to say the least. Amidst the chaos, writers and thinkers sought meaning and fulfilment, turning to philosophy as a guiding light in the darkness.

Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato and Aristotle laid the foundation for Western philosophical thought, exploring the nature of virtue, the pursuit of knowledge, and the quest for “eudaimonia” (or human flourishing). Meanwhile, in Rome, Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca espoused principles of resilience, inner peace and acceptance in the face of adversity and war.

Against this backdrop of intellectual ferment and existential inquiry, happiness wasn’t just a fleeting emotion but a profound philosophical concept – embodying the highest ideals of human existence. 

So how can students use this wisdom today? Let’s explore…

1. Stoicism: Embracing Inner Fortitude in the Storms of Life

Stoicism is a philosophical school that emphasises the importance of inner peace and resilience in the face of adversity. Stoics believe in focusing on what is within our control and accepting what is not.

Marcus Aurelius, one of the most renowned Stoic philosophers (and Roman Emperor!), emphasised the importance of inner peace and resilience in the face of adversity. 

For students facing the pressures of exams or impending deadlines, adopting a Stoic mindset can provide a sense of calm and perspective. Practically, this could involve practising mindfulness techniques to stay resilient and focused on the present moment, accepting things that are beyond our control, or keeping a journal to reflect on challenges and growth.

Stoicism quotes for study motivation

  • “You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realise this, and you will find strength.” – Marcus Aurelius
  • “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” – Seneca
  • “If it is not right, do not do it; if it is not true, do not say it.” – Marcus Aurelius
  • “Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labour does the body.” – Seneca
  • “The greater the difficulty, the more glory in surmounting it.” – Epictetus
  • “He who lives in harmony with himself lives in harmony with the universe.” – Marcus Aurelius
  • “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” – Seneca
  • “The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.” – Marcus Aurelius

2. Cynicism: Embracing Authenticity in a World of Illusions

Cynicism is a philosophical school that advocates a simple and minimalist lifestyle free from societal conventions. Cynics prioritise authenticity and self-sufficiency.

Diogenes of Sinope, the infamous Cynic philosopher (also known as Diogenes the Dog), advocated for a simple and minimalist lifestyle free from societal conventions. He’s famous for living in a barrel, brandishing chickens, mocking Plato and Alexander the Great… among other things! And although you might not want to up sticks and leave your dorm room behind, he does have some useful perspectives.

In the midst of academic stress, embracing Cynic principles can help students prioritise what truly matters and let go of unnecessary worries. This could manifest in simplifying study materials, reducing distractions and peer-pressure, or embracing moments of solitude for self-reflection and renewal.

Cynicism quotes for study motivation

  • “I am looking for an honest man.” – Diogenes
  • “The foundation of every state is the education of its youth.” – Diogenes
  • “We have two ears and one tongue so that we would listen more and talk less.” – Diogenes
  • “Poverty is a virtue which one can teach oneself.” – Diogenes
  • “We have no enemies but ourselves.” – Diogenes
  • “He has the most who is most content with the least.” – Diogenes

3. Skepticism: Embracing Curiosity in the Quest for Truth

Skepticism is a philosophical school that questions the reliability of human knowledge and encourages suspending judgement. Skeptics emphasise the importance of examining assumptions and seeking truth through logical inquiry.

Skeptical philosophers such as Pyrrho questioned the reliability of human knowledge and encouraged suspending judgement. 

By adopting a skeptical outlook, students can approach their studies with curiosity and open-mindedness, allowing for a deeper understanding of the material. Practically, this might involve actively seeking out diverse perspectives, questioning assumptions, and engaging in critical thinking exercises to challenge preconceived notions. 

These are all things that will improve your revision, essay writing and final grades. So are you ready to take a Skeptical approach?

Skepticism quotes for study motivation

  • “Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense.” – Buddha
  • “To find yourself, think for yourself.” – Socrates
  • “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” – Socrates
  • “Doubt is the beginning, not the end, of wisdom.” – George Iles
  • “Skepticism is the first step on the road to philosophy.” – Denis Diderot
  • “Question everything. Learn something. Answer nothing.” – Euripides
  • “The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are the easiest person to fool.” – Richard Feynman
  • “In seeking truth you have to get both sides of a story.” – Walter Cronkite

4. Platonism: Embracing Virtue in the Pursuit of Excellence

Platonism is a philosophical school that explores the nature of virtue and the pursuit of the highest good, or eudaimonia. Platonists believe in the existence of abstract forms and prioritise the cultivation of wisdom and moral excellence.

Plato, through his dialogues featuring Socrates, explored the nature of virtue and the pursuit of the highest good, or eudaimonia. For students striving for excellence, embracing Platonic ideals can inspire a commitment to intellectual and moral growth. This could mean setting challenging yet meaningful academic goals, seeking out mentors for guidance, or engaging in discussions with friends to explore ethical issues that matter to you.

Platonic quotes for study motivation

  • “The unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates
  • “Courage is knowing what not to fear.” – Plato
  • “Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.” – Plato
  • “He who commits injustice is ever made more wretched than he who suffers it.” – Plato
  • “At the touch of love everyone becomes a poet.” – Plato
  • “Ignorance, the root and stem of all evil.” – Plato
  • “Knowledge without justice ought to be called cunning rather than wisdom.” – Plato

5. Aristotelianism: Embracing Balance in the Harmony of Life

Aristotelianism is a philosophical school developed by Aristotle that centres around the concept of “eudaimonia”, or flourishing. Aristotelians believe in cultivating virtues such as courage, wisdom and moderation to achieve a fulfilling life.

By thinking of these virtues, often known as the “middle-way” or the “golden-mean” (i.e. the virtue of dedication to your studies falling in-between lethargy and laziness at one end ot the spectrum and overwork or burnout at the other), students can lead fulfilling lives both academically and personally. Practically, this might involve practising self-discipline to maintain a balanced study schedule, seeking out extracurricular activities that align with your personal values or fostering meaningful connections with peers and mentors.

Aristotelian quotes for study motivation

  • “Happiness depends upon ourselves.” – Aristotle
  • “Excellence is an art won by training and habituation.” – Aristotle
  • “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” – Aristotle
  • “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” – Aristotle
  • “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” – Aristotle
  • “The more you know, the more you realize you don’t know.” – Aristotle
  • “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” – Aristotle
  • “Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.” – Aristotle

6. Epicureanism: Embracing Tranquillity Amidst Pleasure

Epicureanism is a philosophical school that advocates for a life of moderation and tranquillity rather than hedonistic indulgence. Epicureans prioritise simple pleasures, friendship and freedom from fear.

Epicurus, contrary to popular misconceptions, advocated for a life of moderation and tranquillity rather than hedonistic indulgence. By prioritising simple pleasures and cultivating friendships, students can find joy and contentment amidst the rigours of academia and the pulls of the party-scene. 

Practically, this could involve taking regular breaks to recharge, eating well, engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy and support your health (like gentle exercise), and nurturing supportive relationships with classmates and friends.

Epicurean quotes for study motivation

  • “It’s not what we have, but what we enjoy that constitutes our abundance.” – Epicurus
  • “Of all the means to ensure happiness throughout the whole life, by far the most important is the acquisition of friends.” – Epicurus
  • “It is better for you to be free of fear lying upon a pallet, than to have a golden couch and a rich table and be full of trouble.” – Epicurus
  • “The greatest fruit of self-sufficiency is freedom.” – Epicurus
  • “Death does not concern us, because as long as we exist, death is not here. And when it does come, we no longer exist.” – Epicurus
  • “Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not.” – Epicurus
  • “Be moderate in order to taste the joys of life in abundance.” – Epicurus
  • “He who is not satisfied with a little is satisfied with nothing.” – Epicurus

To learn more, listen to a great “In Our Time” episode on Epicurean philosophy.

Feeling some fresh inspiration for your studies?

Incorporating insights from ancient philosophy into our modern lives can offer valuable guidance… especially for students navigating the challenges of exam season or looming deadlines! 

Whether drawing inspiration from the Stoics’ resilience, the Skeptics’ curiosity, or the Epicureans’ tranquillity, there’s wisdom to be gained at every turn. By embracing these timeless teachings and applying them in practical ways, students can cultivate a deeper understanding of happiness and well-being – enriching your academic journey and beyond.

So we’ll leave you with the words of Marcus Aurelius: “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realise this, and you’ll find strength.” 

Wishing you good luck and happy studying.

Want to share your own experiences or any philosophical perspectives that helped your study journey? Leave a comment below.

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