Epictetus

50–135 AD

Stoicism·Graecia

Born a slave in Rome. Became the most influential Stoic teacher of his era. His philosophy has one core distinction: what is up to us, and what is not. Health, reputation, wealth — not up to us. Our judgments, intentions, responses — entirely up to us. Freedom is not a condition. It is a practice.

Key Ideas

01

The dichotomy of control — the foundation of freedom

02

We suffer not from events but from our judgments about them

03

Role ethics — play your part well, whatever it is

04

Philosophy is not theory — it is daily exercise

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