ABSTRACT
Epicurus designed his philosophy with the cares and problems of normal people in mind, and a profitable way of understanding Epicurean thought is as a sort of medical-philosophical therapy. This therapy proceeded methodically but was individualized to fit the needs of each patient, and treats wrong beliefs and dispositions. The method of treatment is outlined in Philodemus’ On Frank Speech and a good example of a specific treatment is the diatribe against anger in his On Anger. After the course of therapy, the patient should be able to live a better life because she is no longer troubled by empty desires or damaging habits. In complicated or delicate cases, special measures must be taken, as perhaps with Idomeneus and his involvement in politics.
