It’s the same with me and the Master Argument; what can I add to what’s already been said? If I am vain, however, and want to impress people, especially at a party, I can catalogue exactly who said what: [9] ‘... And Chrysippus has written splendidly on the subject in the first chapter of his book On Possibles. Cleanthes devoted a whole treatise to the topic, Archedemus too. And then there are Antipater’s contributions, not only in his book On Possibles, but in his special monograph on the Master Argument. [10] Haven’t you read it?’
‘No, I have not.’
‘Oh, read it by all means!’
And what will he gain by reading it? He’ll just be harder to shut up than he is already. I mean, what did you gain by reading it? What opinion did you formulate on the subject? Of course, you will tell us all about Helen and Priam and the island of Calypso – things which neither exist nor ever will.
Discourses 2.19.8
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue in this passage is the tendency to prioritize intellectual vanity over true understanding and wisdom. Epictetus critiques those who accumulate knowledge merely to impress others, rather than to cultivate inner strength and virtue.
As Epictetus notes, "what did you gain by reading it? What opinion did you formulate on the subject?" (Discourses 2.19.10). This question reveals that true wisdom is not about accumulating information, but about applying it to one's life. The passage suggests that living well requires focusing on what is truly important, rather than getting caught up in intellectual pursuits for their own sake.
To apply this insight today, one might ask themselves: "What am I seeking to achieve through my actions and pursuits? Am I seeking to impress others, or to cultivate true wisdom and virtue?" By reflecting on this question, individuals can clarify their values and priorities, and focus on living a life of integrity and purpose.
As a practical exercise, one might consider setting aside time today to reflect on their goals and motivations, and to ask themselves: "What is the purpose of my actions, and am I truly living in accordance with my values?" By doing so, individuals can cultivate a greater sense of awareness and intention, and live a life that is more authentic and meaningful.
What is one thing you can let go of today that is driven by a desire to impress others, rather than a desire to live in accordance with your values?