Previous Stoicism

SET THE STANDARDS AND USE THEM

“When the standards have been set, things are tested and weigher And the work of philosophy is just this, to examine and uphold the standards, but the work of a truly good person is in using those standards when they know them.”

- EPICTETUS, DISCOURSES

Summary
Epictetus emphasizes that philosophy helps us establish standards for living well by testing and weighing our actions. Once these standards are understood, it is the responsibility of a good person to apply them consistently in their life. Philosophy provides the tools for self-examination, but it is the individual’s duty to act according to those principles.

Interpretation
In real life, this could be compared to learning a code of ethics at work or in personal life. For example, imagine someone learning the principles of honesty and integrity at their job. Philosophy (or ethical training) helps them understand the importance of these values. However, it’s not enough to just know them—true wisdom lies in consistently applying these values in everyday decisions, even when it’s difficult.

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