# CXXXII explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

A concise directive on the proper conduct of a ruler, emphasizing humility, lack of contempt, and impartial care for all.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Duty and Relationship

The excerpt defines the ethical duty of a governor, focusing on humility and impartial care as essential virtues for leadership within society.

### Practical Ethics and Self-Discipline

The advice is a practical ethical rule for self-discipline in a position of power, specifically warning against arrogance and contempt.

## Key lines

> Nothing is more becoming to him who governs than to despise no man and not show arrogance, but to preside over all with equal care.

The most fitting conduct for a ruler is to avoid looking down on anyone or acting arrogantly, and instead to administer with fairness and equal attention to everyone.

_A direct prescription for virtuous governance, linking proper external action (care) to internal discipline (avoiding arrogance)._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters/cxxxii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters