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The condition and characteristic of an uninstructed person…

“The condition and characteristic of an uninstructed person is this: he never expects from himself profit (advantage) nor harm, but from externals. The condition and characteristic of a philosopher is this: he expects all advantage and all harm from himself.” quote by Epictetus
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““The condition and characteristic of an uninstructed person is this: he never expects from himself profit (advantage) nor harm, but from externals. The condition and characteristic of a philosopher is this: he expects all advantage and all harm from himself.””

Epictetus

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A philosopher takes responsibility for both good and bad outcomes, while an untrained person blames external factors.

In simple terms: Philosophers own all results; others blame outside.

Key Takeaway

Own your outcomes.

Themes

responsibility self‑reliance philosophy

Mood

reflective determined

Type

ethical practical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision‑making
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • stress management

Key Concepts

Stoicism internal locus of control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate what you can control from what you cannot?
  • What habits help you accept external events?
A Different Perspective

It can be unrealistic to expect total control over external events.

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