Recently, I publiclly posted the following meme by Epictetus, an ancient, prominent Stoic philosopher:
I received several comments challenging Epictetus' quote. The reasoning presented by the several who commented had to do with a combination of blending the modern connotations of the terms desire and freedom. However, Epictetus' statement encapsulates a core tenet of Stoicism: the belief that true freedom arises not from indulging in our desires but from mastering and eventually transcending them. This concept of freedom is deeply rooted in Stoic philosophy, its implications for personal well-being, and how it contrasts with contemporary understandings.
Understanding Stoic Desire and Freedom
Stoic philosophy, founded in the early 3rd century BC, emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with nature and reason. Central to this philosophy is the idea that many external events are beyond our control; thus, true freedom lies in how we respond to these events. Epictetus, a former slave turned philosopher, argued that inner freedom is achieved by cultivating virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance, which became known as the cardinal vitures centuries later by Thomas Aquainas.
Epictetus writes in Enchiridion, 2.1-2 that "the faculty of desire purports to aim at securing what you want…If you fail in your desire, you are unfortunate, if you experience what you would rather avoid you are unhappy…For desire, suspend it completely for now. Because if you desire something outside your control, you are bound to be disappointed; and even things we do control, which under other circumstances would be deserving of our desire, are not yet within our power to attain. Restrict yourself," the philosopher holds, "to choice and refusal; and exercise them carefully, within discipline and detachment.”
These desires, according to the Stoics, are often irrational and can lead to a state of inner turmoil. They believed that desires bind individuals to external circumstances, making them slaves to their cravings and fears. By eliminating desires, one can attain a state of equanimity and inner peace, unperturbed by external forces. This inner tranquility is what Epictetus and other Stoics regarded as true freedom.
The Illusion of Freedom through Satisfying Desires
In modern society, freedom is often equated with the ability to pursue and satisfy one's desires. The consumer culture, in particular, promotes the idea that happiness and freedom are attained through the acquisition of goods and experiences. However, this approach can lead to a perpetual cycle of desire and temporary satisfaction, as new desires continuously emerge.
Epictetus’ assertion challenges this notion by highlighting the transitory nature of satisfaction derived from fulfilling desires. When one desire is satisfied, another often takes its place, leading to a never-ending pursuit that can result in anxiety and dissatisfaction. This cycle demonstrates that satisfying desires does not lead to lasting freedom but rather perpetuates a state of dependence on external factors.
An example of the transitory nature of depending on quick satisfactions from fulling such desires can be demonstrated with the desire for satisfaction from alcohol. In time, the original amount consumed to satisfy will no longer bring the same effect, which can cause a person seeking this quick satisfaction to indulge futher which can lead to a type of enslaved dependence.
Unfortunately, much of the same can occur for a need for quick satisfying music. In time, the ability to satisfy the desire for quick pleasure becomes harder to achieve. Many turn to song or channel surfering to find that "uplifting"song. Similarly, the overstimulation of social media surfing can lead to an overstimulated desire for reaching this lower-level, quick satisfaction of a desire.
Practical Implications of Eliminating Desire
Eliminating desire, as advocated by Epictetus, involves a process of self-discipline and rational introspection. By examining and understanding the root of our desires, we can begin to discern which are necessary and which are superfluous. This discernment is essential for achieving a state of contentment and autonomy.
Practices such as mindfulness and meditation can aid in this process by helping individuals become more aware of their desires and the underlying motivations. Additionally, developing virtues such as self-control and detachment can empower individuals to resist the pull of unnecessary desires. This does not mean renouncing all pleasures but rather cultivating a sense of moderation and appreciation for what one already possesses.
Contrasting Modern and Stoic Views of Freedom
The modern concept of freedom is often associated with the ability to make choices and pursue personal goals. While this perspective values individual autonomy, it can sometimes lead to an overemphasis on external achievements and material success. This view contrasts sharply with the Stoic understanding of freedom, which focuses on internal mastery and resilience.
By eliminating desires, Stoics believe that individuals can achieve a form of freedom that is independent of external circumstances. This inner freedom is marked by a sense of serenity and self-sufficiency, qualities that are increasingly valuable in a world characterized by constant change and uncertainty.
Conclusion
Epictetus’ assertion that “Freedom is not achieved by satisfying desire, but by eliminating it” invites us to reconsider our understanding of desire, freedom and happiness (see The Four Levels of Happiness). While contemporary society often equates freedom with the ability to fulfill desires, Stoic philosophy offers a profound alternative: true freedom is found in mastering our desires and cultivating inner virtues. By adopting this perspective, individuals can achieve a state of enduring tranquility and autonomy, free from the ceaseless pursuit of external satisfaction. This timeless wisdom from Epictetus continues to resonate, offering valuable insights into the nature of true freedom and well-being.
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