The ethics of Epicurus and its relation to the modern theories of Jean-Marie Guyau represents a well-organized and brilliant description of the Epicurean philosophical system. It begins with the most basic principles and guides the reader step-by-step towards a comprehensive exposition of Epicurean philosophy.

The author explains difficult philosophical concepts and how one leads to another, making the volume valuable for anyone who wants to understand how Epicurus built a complete worldview upon his basic philosophical premises. It provides an interpretation of nature and humanity, as well as a guide to life in both personal and social contexts. Guyau is considered an Epicurean and perceives utilitarianism as the modern expression of Epicurean philosophy.

The work was written by Guyau at the age of just nineteen, with the aim of participating in an open competition of the Academy of Moral and Political Sciences. He initially lived in the suburbs of Paris, but his deteriorating health forced him to move to Nice, where the work was first published. He had previously been awarded by the Academy of Moral and Political Sciences, which received the work with great enthusiasm.

This is a very young and original interpretation of Epicurus' theories. Epicurus proves to be one of the philosophers whose ideas tend to dominate today, one of the most modern among the ancients.