In another life I would have been a history teacher.  History is frequently badly taught, but if taught well it puts current affairs into context and teaches you about human strengths, weaknesses and motivations.  While it might not repeat itself it throws up a host of do’s and don’ts to every government and student.

Deeply influenced by two world wars, directly or indirectly caused by economic competition and crass nationalism (or tribalism), I squirm when Americans (curiously, a majority of women) make nationalistic comments.  Nationalism leads to war and is a crutch for those who like feel good about themselves while supporting the bullying and strong-arming of less powerful countries.  It unattractive.  Had the parties in question actually suffered directly from war themselves (we were bombed out of our house when I was four years old and didn’t see my father until I was 7.  He was in the air force), they might be more cautious about casually invading others.

Epicurus lived in violent days, and his answer was to repair to his garden and talk about life with friends.  Friends, not politicians, tribal associates or religious enthusiasts.  Nationalism hadn’t been invented in his day, but human nature was the same, and human nature messed up the world of Epicurus.   He was definitely against militarism, huge armies, bullying and war.

You can’t be an Epicurean and support throwing your weight around the world with the biggest military in history. Epicureanism means finding means to get along with, and include with justice and fairness, all your fellow citizens – and human beings.