“Remember that it’s not only the desire for wealth and position that debases and subjugates us, but also the desire for peace, leisure, travel, and learning. It doesn’t matter what the external thing is, the value we place on it subjugates us to another … where our heart is set, there our impediment lies.” —Epictetus, DISCOURSES, 4.4.1–2; 15
- We need to be careful about desire, and not only for things that we know can subjugate our thoughts and drive us away from a virtuous life, but also for more mundane things; anything that cannot be acquired within us, that is.
- Desiring something even as positive as peace may unconsciously affect our decision-making, and create expectations. It can also denature our relationship with others who we may see as obstacles to the desire.
- We shouldn't desire anything external, as we won't have any direct control on its outcome. Desiring an outcome on which we don't have any control is irrational. Dichotomy of Control, or “Stoic Fork”
- I assume it’s a matter of intensity of desire. When it comes to learning, however, unless it’s about something to which we don’t have access, or need someone to teach us, for the most part, it is within our control. And learning translates (hopefully) to more wisdom, which is one of the cardinal virtues.