# XVI: That We Do Not Strive to Use Our Opinions About Good and Evil explained — Discourses

> Chapter companion for Discourses by Epictetus.

## What happens

Epictetus argues that people fail to apply their philosophical training to real life, focusing on external goods rather than the will, which is the true seat of good and evil. He criticizes the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical action, urging readers to discipline their opinions and accept divine will with magnanimity, using examples like a lute player's anxiety and children crying for their nurse.

## Themes in this chapter

### Dichotomy of Control

Central theme: good and evil reside in the will, not in external things independent of the will.

### Philosophy as Practical Discipline

Epictetus criticizes the gap between theoretical study and real-life application, urging practice of opinions.

### Providence and Acceptance

The divine law is to accept what is given and give it up readily, trusting in God's administration.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

Speaker and central figure, delivering the discourse on the misuse of opinions about good and evil.

### Socrates

Cited as a model of a true philosopher who lived and died with integrity.

### Diogenes

Mentioned as an example of a philosopher who did not weep or grieve over external losses.

### Hercules

Used as an exemplar of service to God and purging injustice, contrasting with those who sit idle.

### Chrysippus

Referenced as a philosopher whose works are read but not truly followed.

### Zeus

Invoked in the text as part of the divine law and in the phrase 'No, by Zeus'.

## Key lines

> Where is the good? In the will. Where is the evil? In the will. Where is neither of them? In those things which are independent of the will.

Good and evil are located solely in our choices and intentions, not in external circumstances.

_Core Stoic doctrine defining the dichotomy of control._

> When money is shown (offered) to you, have you studied to make the proper answer, that money is not a good thing?

Have you trained yourself to respond correctly when tempted by money, recognizing it is not a true good?

_Critique of failing to apply philosophical lessons to real-life situations._

> Dare to look up to God and say, 'Deal with me for the future as thou wilt; I am of the same mind as thou art; I am thine.'

Have the courage to surrender to divine will, affirming your alignment with God's plan.

_Exhortation to accept providence and achieve freedom from anxiety._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/discourses_se/chapters/xvi-that-we-do-not-strive-to-use-our-opinions-about-good-and-evil
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/discourses_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/discourses_se/chapters