Philosophy is the practical application of principles.

Chapter LI, Enchiridion

The first and most necessary topic in philosophy is the practical application of principles, as, We ought not to lie; the second is that of demonstrations as, Why it is that we ought not to lie; the third, that which gives strength and logical connection to the other two, as, Why this is a demonstration. For what is demonstration? What is a consequence? What a contradiction? What truth? What falsehood? The third point is then necessary on account of the second; and the second on account of the first. But the most necessary, and that whereon we ought to rest, is the first. But we do just the contrary. For we spend all our time on the third point and employ all our diligence about that, and entirely neglect the first. Therefore, at the same time that we lie, we are very ready to show how it is demonstrated that lying is wrong.

Upon all occasions we ought to have these maxims ready at hand:

Conduct me, Zeus, and thou, O Destiny, Wherever your decrees have fixed my lot. I follow cheerfully; and, did I not, Wicked and wretched, I must follow still.

Who’er yields properly to Fate is deemed Wise among men, and knows the laws of Heaven.

And this third:

“O Crito, if it thus pleases the gods, thus let it be.”

“Anytus and Melitus may kill me indeed; but hurt me they cannot.”

Thoughts

a. Philosophy is nothing unless its principles are implemented in the life of the philosopher. Philosophy should have a very observable manifestation , it is not about thinking and talking.

b. We ought not to lie, is an important philosophical principle. It is an action and an example of the most important topic,”the practical application of principles”.

c. The second most important topic is knowing the rationale for the action. People are good at questioning the demonstration of principles, ‘ why are we doing this?”, poor at the practical application.

d.The third philosophical topic is questioning and reflecting. For what is demonstration? What is a consequence? What a contradiction? What truth? What falsehood? These are the type of questions to ask and contemplate.

d. Easy not to implement a principle yet spend time being dishonest, philosophising on why it is so important. Do not do as I do, do as a I say.

e. Acceptance of fate and fortune is imperative. It is just life’s events occurring not an effort to get at you specifically. Do not take negative events personally. Live in good cheer. You are not a victim.

f. Anytus, prosecutor of Socrates in Athens. A democrat who disliked Socrates immensely.

g. While Epictetus admits he may be killed because of his teachings, he can not be hurt. The latter is a controllable, the reaction to an event, set back or persecution.