Crows pick out the eyes of the dead, when the dead have no longer need of them; but flatterers mar the soul of the living, and her eyes they blind.
EpictetusRead
At this time is freedom anything but the right to live as we wish? Nothing else.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Freedom is about the ability to live according to our own desires and choices.
In this quote, Epictetus emphasizes that true freedom lies in the ability to live oneβs life as one wishes, free from external constraints or pressures. It suggests that the essence of being free is not merely the absence of limitations, but rather the presence of autonomy in making personal choices that reflect our own values and intentions.
Themes
FreedomChoiceAutonomyLifePhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on personal development, one might use this quote to emphasize self-determination.
More from Epictetus
All quotes βLearn to distinguish what you can and can't control. Within our control are our own opinions, aspirations, desires and the things that repel us. They are directly subject to our influence.
EpictetusRead
Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
EpictetusRead
Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn't be affected by an incident unless you let it.
EpictetusRead
The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
EpictetusRead
Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
EpictetusRead
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A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
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As long as the reason of man continues fallible, and he is at liberty to exercise it, different opinions will be formed. As long as the connection subsists between his reason and his self-love, his opinions and passions will have a reciprocal influence on each other, and the former will be objects to which the latter attach themselves.
James MadisonRead