Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied
Stoic Guide to Mastering Desire | Epictetus Handbook 14 (Episode 170)
Feb 11, 2025
Discover the essence of Stoic philosophy and the mastery of desire. Uncover the four key principles from Epictetus that differentiate internal control from external wants. Understand how desiring the wrong things can turn us into slaves of circumstance. Learn why true freedom stems from character cultivation rather than material wealth. This insightful discussion delves into personal empowerment, emphasizing that freedom is truly about wanting what you can control.
26:06
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Quick takeaways
- Mastering desires in Stoicism emphasizes focusing on internal virtues rather than external outcomes to achieve emotional resilience.
- True freedom is achieved by desiring only what one can control, reducing vulnerability to external circumstances and influences.
Deep dives
Understanding the Discipline of Desire
The discipline of desire in Stoicism emphasizes the importance of mastering what one wants and avoiding unhealthy aversions. This discipline is foundational for emotional regulation and helps individuals handle passions like anger and jealousy that can stem from poor desires. By wanting the right things—those that are within our control—individuals can significantly reduce unnecessary suffering. Epictetus' Handbook outlines that failing to manage desires can lead to negative emotions that disrupt one’s ability to act justly in daily life.
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