Reference no: EM132557722

1. What are some things the allegory suggests about the process of enlightenment or education?

2. The allegory presupposes that there is a distinction between appearances and reality. Do you agree? Why or why not?

3. What sometimes happens to people when the illusion is shattered and reality is revealed? Can you give an example from your own or a friend's experience?

4. Although Epicurus is a hedonist, he is clearly opposed to vulgar hedonism. Can you find additional arguments for or against the theory of vulgar hedonism? Is it not terribly " judgmental" for us to claim that some pleasures are "higher" or " lower" than others? Shouldn't we just tolerate and accept differences of opinion in this area? Or does it make more sense to argue that there is a natural hierarchy of pleasures and pains?

5. Epicurus believes that fear of divine retribution is the greatest source of fear and anxiety. Do you agree with this assessment? Why or why not?

6. Epicurus argues that the best and happiest way of life is one in which one seeks to satisfy on the most basic, natural and necessary desires. Do you agree that embracing such a life of simplicity (no honor, fame, luxury or wealth) is really more conducive to happiness and tranquility than trying to "keep up with the Joneses"? If you said "yes," then are you already taking measures to live in the Epicurean manner?

7. If Nietzsche were alive today, would he describe the contemporary United States as being governed by master morality or slave morality? Explain, and be specific.

8. Do you agree with Nietzsche's claim that "every elevation of the type ‘man' has hitherto been the work of an aristocratic society and so it will always be"? Why or why not?

9. Do you agree with Ortega's claim that we are (as of 1929, when he wrote The Revolt of the Masses) living in what he calls a hyperdemocracy? Explain.