Definition
Epictetus (c. 50–135 CE) was a Stoic philosopher who was born into slavery in the Roman Empire and later taught freely after gaining his liberty. He wrote nothing himself; his teachings survive through notes taken by his student Arrian, collected as the Discourses and the brief handbook known as the Enchiridion.
His philosophy is austere and practical. It opens with a single organizing principle: some things are within our power and some are not, and a good life depends on knowing the difference.
Why it matters
How it works
For Epictetus, what lies in our power is our judgments, desires, and chosen actions; what lies outside it is the body, property, reputation, and the behavior of others. Suffering comes from confusing the two — demanding control over externals that were never ours.
The remedy is to train attention on impressions: examine each impression before assenting to it, and reserve desire and aversion for things genuinely within reach.