Epictetus Stoic teachings
Epictetus: What appears sensible or senseless,…
What appears sensible or senseless, beneficial or harmful, varies from person to person. Education teaches us to bring these first impressions into accord with nature, considering both externals and the demands of our own character.
A paraphrase of a teaching associated with Epictetus, written for modern readers. Not a transcription of a copyrighted edition.
Most of us inherit a surprising number of judgments. We absorb them from family, friends, advertising, workplace culture, and whatever group we want to join. Then we call those borrowed judgments our own. Philosophy asks us to pause before obeying them. When an opportunity, purchase, invitation, or argument appears, ask more than whether it looks attractive. Ask whether it fits the kind of person you are trying to become. A promotion that requires dishonesty is not automatically good news. A popular opinion is not automatically wise. Education is useful when it gives you a way to examine your impulses rather than merely decorate them with impressive words. Today, notice one assumption steering your choices. Test it against fairness, courage, and self-respect. You do not need to let the loudest voice around you set the direction of your life.
Related passages
- Marcus Aurelius As for that which is truly good, what can it stand in need of more than either justice or truth; or more than either…
- Marcus Aurelius Continue then to take notice of it, as thou hast begun, and whatsoever thou dost, do it not without this proviso, that…
- Marcus Aurelius Let us do our best endeavours to persuade them; but however, if reason and justice lead thee to it, do it, though they…