While this blog talks about Epicureanism, others take a more practical approach. In 2008, the philosopher Alain de Botton, established The School of Life, inspired by the community garden of Epicurus. And in 2011, Tom Hodgkinson of The Idler set up the Idler Academy, again in imitation of Epicurus’ Garden. Both schools have a bust of Epicurus in their hall. These organisations take philosophy beyond academia and back to ordinary life. But they don’t replicate Epicurus’ Garden, and indeed it would be difficult to do so in the modern world. Followers gather together in this modern Garden, but they don’t concentrate solely on Epicureanism. Nor are they asked to believe in any one thing, swear allegiance or oaths etc. They are asked, I understand, to think for themselves. Now there is something! Very easy-going in the Epicurean tradition. (adapted from the excellent website, Philosophyforlife.org)