

Making Proper use of Impressions with Epictetus (Episode 173)
10 snips Mar 4, 2025
Explore how Epictetus emphasizes the significance of making proper use of impressions in our lives. Discover practical strategies for evaluating perceptions and aligning judgments with Stoic principles. Learn to navigate emotional triggers like insults and flattery with mindfulness, making sound decisions about what truly matters. This discussion sheds light on the Stoic approach to understanding and interpreting our experiences.
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Stoic Psychology
- Stoics believe humans act and feel based on their judgments of the world.
- Our emotions and character depend on how we perceive the world.
Impressions and Beliefs
- Our beliefs are often false because they're based on impressions, not direct reality.
- These impressions can be inaccurate, leading to false beliefs and flawed actions.
The Iliad and Impressions
- Epictetus uses the Iliad to illustrate how impressions drive actions.
- Paris's impression of Helen and Menelaus's impression of revenge fueled the Trojan War.