Professor Austin: Philosophy at Wake Forest University

Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Life: The Work of Philosopher Emily Austin

Emily Austin is a distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Wake Forest University who specializes in making ancient philosophical traditions accessible and applicable to contemporary challenges. For the 2025-2026 academic year, she’s expanding her reach as a Visiting Professor of Philosophy at Bowdoin College although on abandon from her home institution.

Austin’s work doesn’t just live in academic journals; it focuses on the intersection of rigorous scholarship and public utility, helping people navigate modern anxiety, social injustice, and the complexities of human emotion through the lens of the ancient world.

Specialization in Complex Emotions

At the core of Austin’s scholarly research is a deep dive into Ancient Greek theories of complex emotions. Rather than focusing on simple feelings, she analyzes the intricate psychological states that define the human experience, including:

• The fear of death
• Grief
• Patriotism
• Comedic malice

By examining these emotions, Austin explores how ancient frameworks can provide clarity on how we feel and react in the modern era.

“Living for Pleasure”: Applying Epicureanism Today

Austin is the author of Living for Pleasure: an Epicurean Guide to Life, published by Oxford University Press. Written specifically for a non-academic audience, the book serves as a practical guide to using Epicurean philosophy to manage the stresses of 21st-century existence.

The book demonstrates how Epicurean strategies can help individuals:

• Combat imposter syndrome and build trust.
• Manage political anxiety and develop gratitude.
• Prepare for suffering and face death with composure.
• Cultivate healthy attitudes toward money and success.

Her effort to bring philosophy into the public sphere has earned significant acclaim. Living for Pleasure was reviewed in The Guardian and the Times Literary Supplement and received the inaugural Journal of the History of Philosophy Book Prize for public philosophy. Austin was named the first-ever recipient of the Public History of Philosophy Prize in March 2025.

Stoicism vs. Epicureanism: Perspectives on Social Justice

Austin’s expertise extends to comparing different schools of ancient thought to understand their impact on social behavior. In her analysis of Stoicism and Epicureanism, she highlights a critical distinction regarding social justice:

• Stoicism: Austin notes that Stoics value virtue as the only intrinsic good and often view social justice with indifference. She describes Stoicism as an “easily weaponized philosophy” because its emphasis on internal control can be used to justify complacency in the face of injustice.
• Epicureanism: This school advocates for a hedonistic perspective, suggesting that to be virtuous, one must actively seek pleasure and avoid pain.

Academic Background and Education

Austin’s academic journey began in Arkansas, where she attended Little Rock Central High and graduated from Hendrix College. She later earned her doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis in 2009.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of Emily Austin’s book, “Living for Pleasure”?

The book aims to provide a jargon-free tour of Epicurean strategies to help non-academic readers diminish anxiety, achieve satisfaction, and deal with deep-seated problems that hinder a balanced and enjoyable life.

How does Austin view the relationship between Stoicism and social justice?

Austin argues that because Stoics view many forms of social justice with indifference, the philosophy can potentially encourage complacency regarding systemic injustice.