EPICTETUS (STOICISM)

Epictetus

Former slave turned philosopher; heavily influenced by Socrates; believes humans must seek internal strength rather than change the world.

Highest Good (Stoicism)

“Impassivity and good flow of life” — a state of rational calm, free from fear, where one’s character is stable regardless of circumstances.

Impassivity

Not emotional suppression, but the genuine lack of emotional disturbance even when facing hardship.

Freedom (Stoic Sense)

Freedom from internal trouble, fear, anxiety — not political freedom.

Integrity

The inward commitment to reason, rational judgment, and moral character. To have integrity is to be faithful to one's true principles.

Externals

Everything not truly part of us, including:

• Body (“constructed clay”)

• Reputation

• Wealth

• Community

• Relationships

• Suffering

• Events

• Luck

Externals are unimportant and often harmful.

What is Truly Ours

• Reason

• Judgment

• Character

These cannot be harmed by others.

Attitude toward Death

“I must die. But must I die bawling?”
Death is an unavoidable external; what matters is our attitude.

Attitude toward Punishment

“I must be put in chains — but need I groan?”
Punishment may not be under our control, but our response is.

Attitude toward Exile

Exile = being rejected or removed from community.
One should meet it with calm: identity does not depend on others.

Stoic view of Human Relationships

Humans need others minimally, but must not become attached.
Others can harm, betray, or ignore you — therefore you must remain inwardly independent.

Why Epictetus Dismisses Injustice

Because injustice is an external; the only thing that matters is inner integrity.

Stoic view of Adversity

All adversity can be “used” to develop fairness, sociability, and strength.
Examples:

• A harsh trainer strengthens you

• A bad neighbor helps you practice fairness

• A cruel father helps develop patience

• Even slander, death, poverty, illness can be “converted to advantage” (exaggerated to teach detachment)

Neutrality of Events

Ultimately:

• Nothing is truly good

• Nothing is truly bad

• All events are externals and cannot touch the soul

Stoicism on Political Achievements

Marcus Aurelius, a powerful emperor, agrees:

• Achievements, fame, and power mean nothing

• Human excellence is internal, not political