Epicurus, generally an egotistical hedonist, strays away from that characteristic when he discusses the issue of friendship. As a hedonistic philosopher, he believed that one's life should be devoted to the pursuit of pleasure, especially pleasure in regards to the senses. Anything that causes pleasure is good therefore worth pursuing. However, while discussing friendship, Epicurus shows a true altruism toward the subject. Altruism is the unselfish concern for others. An altruist will reflect upon the welfare of others before his/her own. Altruism is a genuinely selfless characteristic that completely contradicts other ideas and concepts presented by Epicurus. However, I do see this pattern of beliefs as neither contradictory nor inconsistent. Considering Epicurus' love for friendship, I believe he saw friendship as just another means of attaining pleasure. During his lifetime, Epicurus lived in solitary with only a limited number of people whom he considered his friends. He called this small community "the garden" and each day consisted of reflection, gardening and relaxation, all in attempt to gain some sort of pleasure. Believing in the true power of friendship, Epicurus believed a life without friendship is one with loneliness and many problems. When it concerns friends who have passed away, he states that meditation rather than lamentation is not only more beneficial but pleasing. We should look back at the times we had with our friends rather than mourning their passing. "Sweet is the memory of the friend who is dead." Even though a friend has lost their life, he/she has not lost their inspiration and influence. Epicurus also conceives that a true friend will not continually ask for help, rather they will always associate help with friendship. In order for a ...