Apicius

Historical Figure

Ancient Rome (1st Century CE)

From Cookery and Dining in Imperial Rome by Apicius

"The discovery of a new dish does more for human happiness than the discovery of a new star."

Known for: Ancient Roman gastronome and author of the oldest surviving cookbook

food cooking culture lifestyle history

About Apicius

Role: Celebrated Roman gourmet and alleged author/collector of the recipes.

Core Belief: Apicius believed that the pursuit of culinary excellence was a worthwhile endeavor, contributing to both pleasure and knowledge.

Worldview: Apicius viewed the world as a source of gastronomic delights, with a focus on identifying, preparing, and enjoying the finest foods.

Debates featuring Apicius

Health & Lifestyle

My doctor just told me I need to lose 40 pounds or I'm looking at diabetes and heart problems. The thing is, I LOVE food. Cooking is my hobby, eating out is my social life, and wine is my way of unwinding. I've tried diets before. They make me miserable. I spend all day thinking about what I can't eat. Food stops being pleasurable and becomes the enemy. I lose 15 pounds, feel deprived and joyless, then gain back 20. My wife says I need to learn "moderation." My doctor says I need to treat food as "fuel, not entertainment." But food IS entertainment to me—it's culture, connection, art. Can I save my health without killing my joy? Or do I have to choose between a longer life and a life worth living? — Foodie Facing Mortality in Miami

95 votes

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