Animal Quote by Donald J. Robertson
““Epictetus actually says all the enmity between people is down to a single judgement of this kind, they ‘put themselves and what belongs to themselves in the category of things which lie outside the sphere of volition’ (Discourses, 2.22). We see dogs playfully fawning on each other and might say that they ‘love’ one another as ‘friends’ but if we throw a piece of meat between them then a fight breaks out and they are quickly pitted against each other. Throw some land or money between father and son, he says, and we will see how fragile the bond is between them, as long as external things are confused with our ultimate good (Discourses, 3.24).””
About This Quote
Source Book: Discourses of Epictetus, 2.22 & 3.24
We judge others as outsiders when we treat external things as essential, causing conflict and fragile bonds.
In simple terms: Seeing others as outsiders leads to conflict.
Key Takeaway
Recognize what truly matters and let go of external attachments.
Themes
philosophy
relationships
psychology
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- family disputes
- workplace tension
- friendship challenges
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Stoicism
judgment
volition
Questions to Reflect On
- What external thing do you value most?
- How can you shift focus to internal virtues?
A Different Perspective
If external rewards dominate, bonds may still break despite good intentions.
