The Essence of Good and Impressions

The concept of making proper use of impressions is presented as a foundational aspect of Stoicism, highlighting its significance according to Epictetus. He asserts that the purpose of reason is to discern and evaluate the impressions we receive, and that achieving the essence of good involves accurately interpreting these impressions. This perspective emphasizes the belief that human actions are driven by how individuals judge and respond to the world around them, making it crucial for one’s well-being to align beliefs with reality. By properly understanding and assessing impressions, Stoics contend that individuals can significantly improve their emotional life and character.