Selected Discourses of Epcitetus, Essay Example

Epictetus’ discourse begins by discussing the things that are in our power in addition to the things that are not. He provides examples that demonstrates the possibility of confusing the two. He explains, “How far does the grammatic art possess the contemplating power? As far as forming a judgment about what is written and spoken. And how far music? As far as judging about melody. Does either of them then contemplate itself? By no means.” Epictetus is explaining that humans have power over the arts. We select what words we speak and write, in addition to the sentence structures we use to convey these thoughts. We choose these things in the same manner that we choose to make music and the musical elements that are used to create the piece. Despite this, “But when you must write something to your friend, grammar will tell you what words you should write; but whether you should write or not, grammar will not tell you”. This indicates that we are presented with rules, but we have the ability to choose follow them or avoid these conventions altogether.

In this discourse, we a presented with an interesting notion concerning choice. In many instances, we struggle between the ability to choose and do as we like and follow social conventions. While we are often told how to do things properly, we have the choice of whether or not we will do them at all. Furthermore, we have the ability to determine whether we will follow the prescribed set of rules or to ignore them altogether. It is important to consider that despite the fact that we are told the right and wrong ways to do things, we are in control of our actions. Ultimately, trying new things are beneficial because doing so may alter the conventions for these particular activities. Over time, one who breaks the rules may end up making the rules, which represents the importance of choice.

In the second part of his discourse, Epictetus discusses how one could properly maintain character. “To the rational animal only is the irrational intolerable; but that which is rational is tolerable.” Therefore, it is important to think before one acts in order to act morally. Since humans are “rational animals” this is the only action that makes sense. To be our best, we need to thoroughly consider our standing in society and in the world and to take actions that will benefit not only ourselves, but others. However, the definition and what is rational and what is not rational depends on the particular person that is having the thought. As Epictetus explains, a man wanting to commit suicide does not appear rational to many, but since it is rational for the person who thinks it, this is the action that they will take. Therefore, it is important to consider that men have distinct thoughts from one another and that the thoughts they have can make sense within the context of their own minds.

Based on both the information presented in this article and what I have learned in this class, it appears that the ability to make choices and morale actions is somewhat subjective. Society provides us with a clear set of rules that we are expected to follow and it is necessary for us to determine whether we agree or disagree with these rules. Some individuals define morality as following these social conventions, while others define it as attempting to gain a greater understanding of these rules and then determining whether they should be followed or not based on their ability to benefit or detract from society. Epictetus demonstrates that there are many different ways of thinking and that actions and thoughts that may seem to be completely irrational to some people may hold the truth for others. This is important because it allows us to gain a greater understanding of the motives of different people even though their methods of reasoning may be different from our own.

This information pertains to my life in addition to the lives of many who have come to understand Epictetus’ words. While this information helps us gain an understanding of our own decisions and modes of thought, it also teaches us about how to approach our relationships with others. Overall, we must respect the different rationalizations that people use to justify their lives and experiences and that these rationalizations are due to the environmental factors that these people have differentially experienced. It is expected that individuals that apply this mode of thought in their daily lives will be able to better connect with others due to an increased understanding of their behavior. Ultimately, gaining an understanding of people will help establish connections that will benefit graduates in terms of finding jobs and fostering relationships with their coworkers. Therefore, even if one does not agree with the rationalization of individuals, it is important to at least try to understand this mode of thought, as this will benefit both the thinker and the interpreter.

References

Epictetus. (2004). A Selection from the Discourses of Epictetus With the Encheiridion. Retrieved from http://www.gutenberg.org/files/10661/10661-h/10661-h.htm