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Who Said the Goal of Life Is Living in Agreement with Nature

June 26, 2023 | Chris Clark

In today`s world, more and more people are seeking a life that is harmonious with nature. Many are exploring alternative lifestyles that prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation, and are looking to learn from cultures that have traditionally lived in harmony with the natural world. One of the most popular quotes that captures this sentiment is the statement that “the goal of life is living in agreement with nature.”

However, the origins of this quote and the identity of its author are somewhat shrouded in mystery. Some attribute the quote to the philosopher and naturalist Henry David Thoreau, while others believe it to be the work of the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus.

Thoreau, who lived in the mid-19th century, is best known for his book Walden, in which he describes his experiences living in a small cabin in the woods for over two years. Thoreau was deeply influenced by the transcendentalist movement, which held that nature was a source of spiritual wisdom and that human beings could achieve enlightenment by immersing themselves in the natural world.

Epicurus, on the other hand, was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived in the 3rd century BCE. He believed that the purpose of life was to achieve happiness and tranquility, and that this could be achieved by living in accordance with nature. However, while Epicurus is often associated with the idea of living in harmony with nature, it is unclear whether he actually made the statement that “the goal of life is living in agreement with nature.”

Regardless of who first uttered this phrase, it has become a rallying cry for those seeking a more environmentally conscious and sustainable life. From organic farming practices to alternative energy sources, many are striving to find ways to live in closer harmony with the natural world. And as climate change and other environmental crises continue to pose a threat to our planet, it is clear that finding ways to live in agreement with nature is more important than ever.

June 26, 2023 | Chris Clark

Who Said the Goal of Life Is Living in Agreement with Nature

In today`s world, more and more people are seeking a life that is harmonious with nature. Many are exploring alternative lifestyles that prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation, and are looking to learn from cultures that have traditionally lived in harmony with the natural world. One of the most popular quotes that captures this sentiment is the statement that "the goal of life is living in agreement with nature."

However, the origins of this quote and the identity of its author are somewhat shrouded in mystery. Some attribute the quote to the philosopher and naturalist Henry David Thoreau, while others believe it to be the work of the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus.

Thoreau, who lived in the mid-19th century, is best known for his book Walden, in which he describes his experiences living in a small cabin in the woods for over two years. Thoreau was deeply influenced by the transcendentalist movement, which held that nature was a source of spiritual wisdom and that human beings could achieve enlightenment by immersing themselves in the natural world.

Epicurus, on the other hand, was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived in the 3rd century BCE. He believed that the purpose of life was to achieve happiness and tranquility, and that this could be achieved by living in accordance with nature. However, while Epicurus is often associated with the idea of living in harmony with nature, it is unclear whether he actually made the statement that "the goal of life is living in agreement with nature."

Regardless of who first uttered this phrase, it has become a rallying cry for those seeking a more environmentally conscious and sustainable life. From organic farming practices to alternative energy sources, many are striving to find ways to live in closer harmony with the natural world. And as climate change and other environmental crises continue to pose a threat to our planet, it is clear that finding ways to live in agreement with nature is more important than ever.