Previous Stoicism

THE THREE AREAS OF TRAINING

“There are three areas in which the person who would be wise and good must be trained. The first has to do with desires and aversions-that a person may never miss the mark in desires nor fall into what repels them. The second has to do with impulses to act and not to act—and more broadly, with duty-that a person may act deliberately for good reasons and not carelessly. The third has to do with freedom from deception and composure and the whole area of judgement—the assent our mind gives to its perceptions. Of these areas, the chief and most urgent is the first which has to do with the passions, for strong emotions arise only when we fail in our desires and aversions.”

- EPICTETUS, DISCOURSES

Summary

Epictetus outlines three key areas of training for achieving wisdom and moral goodness. The first focuses on managing desires and aversions, ensuring we do not fall into the trap of excessive wants or avoidances. The second involves acting with purpose and duty, making decisions based on good reasoning rather than impulsive actions. The third concerns judgement and the ability to assess our perceptions accurately. The most crucial of these areas is the first, as strong emotions stem from failing to manage our desires and aversions.

Interpretation

For readers of The Daily Stoic, this passage reinforces the importance of emotional mastery and thoughtful decision-making. In real life, it encourages us to first address our internal impulses—our desires, fears, and attachments—which can lead to emotional turmoil if unchecked. By training ourselves to respond to these feelings deliberately rather than react impulsively, we can cultivate a more peaceful and rational mindset. This process of self-discipline and clear judgement is foundational for making virtuous decisions and living in accordance with Stoic principles.

 

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