Epictetus
Roman Empire, first–second centuries
He placed moral training in distinguishing our choices from matters outside our control.
Historical context
The Discourses and Handbook transmit Epictetus’s teaching as recorded by Arrian in the setting of Roman imperial Stoicism.
Overview
Distinguishing an impression from our response turns a general idea into an exercise. One can examine what depends on judgment and what outcomes depend on external circumstances.
Main claims
Moral training concentrates on our use of impressions and on our choices.
Debates and nuances
The teaching survives chiefly in texts transmitted by Arrian.
This entry provides educational context.