No man is free who is not master of himself. – Epictetus
This quote by Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher, suggests that true freedom is not about external circumstances but rather about internal control and self-mastery. It implies that a person who is governed by their own desires, emotions, or impulses is not truly free because they are at the mercy of these internal forces. Real freedom, according to this perspective, comes from being able to regulate and master one's own mind and actions, making choices based on reason and virtue rather than compulsion or societal pressures. In essence, self-discipline and self-control are the pathways to true personal freedom.
Quote By: Epictetus
Epictetus was a Greek Stoic philosopher born around 55 CE in Hierapolis, Phrygia, and he lived until approximately 135 CE. Originally a slave, he gained his freedom and became influential in teaching Stoic principles, emphasizing the importance of personal ethics informed by a system of logic and understanding of the natural world. His teachings, primarily recorded in the "Discourses" and the "Enchiridion" by his student Arrian, have had a lasting impact on Western philosophy, particularly in areas of ethics and the pursuit of a virtuous life.
Bio added on: 2025-02-18 21:40:21