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Who are those people by whom you wish to be admired? Are…

“Who are those people by whom you wish to be admired? Are they not these whom you are in the habit of saying that they are mad? What then? Do you wish to be admired by the mad?” quote by Epictetus
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“Who are those people by whom you wish to be admired? Are they not these whom you are in the habit of saying that they are mad? What then? Do you wish to be admired by the mad?”

Epictetus

About This Quote

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

Questioning admiration of those deemed mad, urging reflection on whose values we chase.

In simple terms: Don’t admire the mad without thought.

Key Takeaway

Choose role models wisely.

Themes

self‑reflection values admirations

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership selection
  • personal ethics

Key Concepts

Stoic philosophy social influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who truly embodies virtue?
  • How do you define “mad”?
A Different Perspective

Madness can be mischaracterized.

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