Quote by Epictetus: “Freedom is the only worthy goal in life. It is to be gained by despising things outside our control.”

Epictetus argues that true freedom comes from detaching ourselves from external factors that we cannot influence. By not caring about what is beyond our power, we free our minds from anxiety and external pressures, thus achieving genuine inner liberty and independence, leading to a state of self-mastery.

During the Roman Empire, Epictetus taught philosophical principles to help people find inner peace and resilience amidst external turmoil and political instability, emphasizing self-control.

Greek Stoic philosopher born into slavery in the Roman Empire who became one of the most influential moral philosophers of antiquity. His teachings, recorded by his student Arrian in the Enchiridion and the Discourses, form the practical core of Stoic philosophy.