The Philosophy Of Epictetus

Epictetus was a philosopher that was born in 50 C.E.and died in 130 C.E., Epictetus was famous for his strong belief in self discipline. Unlike fellow philosopher Epicurus Epictetus does not believe that matter is the most important thing in the universe and that people should try to fulfill their pleasures. Epictetus believes that the most important thing in the universe is God. He believes that people should live their entire lives understanding where they stand in the cosmic universe. As stated in the book Great Traditions In Ethics Epictetus believes “That we are first to learn that there is a god; and that his providence directs the whole” (Denise, White, &

Peterfreund, 50) Epictetus wants humans to devote their lives to God instead

An example of this is “God bids the plants to blossom, to bud and they bud, to bear fruit and they bear it, to ripen it and they ripen it” (Denise et al., 51). Epictetus feels that God is synonymous with this universe. Not only is God apart of the universe that we live in but he is inside us as well. He say’s “Our souls are thus connected and intimately joined to God, as being indeed members and distinct portions of his essence” (Denise et al.,51). Due to the fact that God is the ruler of our universe Epictetus does not believe that humans should act on their own but rather humans should do what is best for the collective. Each individual should realize what their point in society is and fulfill their duty to that society. Epictetus believes that each man is important to the collective of people as show when he say’s “You are a citizen of the universe, and a part of it; not a subordinate, but a principle part.” (Denise et al.,52). Epictetus thinks that we each have a purpose in society and it is our responsibility to make sure we do it. People are not to act for themselves but to help the

He also wants us to know that we should understand what is in our power and what is not. When something is not in our power we should just accept it and move on with our lives. It’s very important that in life we conquer our will and use our “Rational Nature.” (Denise et al., 52). Epictetus believes that we should avoid frustration and disappointment. This goes along side his idea of not taking to heart what is out of our control. We should try to avoid the feelings of frustration and disappointment and instead use our will power to overcome it. Epictetus argues that everything that happens in life is because of the divine beings will for it to be so. We should act logically and just trust that everything happens for a reason. “[ Remember ] that such is, and was, and will be, the nature of the world, nor is it possible that things should be otherwise than they now are.” (Denise et al., 52). It is important that humans just accept everything as is and try their best to fulfill their duty to the city of God. Epictetus warns that a person who chases after pleasures will feel more sorrow than someone