Single Idea 1837

[catalogued under 16. Persons / F. Free Will / 7. Compatibilism]

Full Idea

The best men have no belief in necessity (set up by some as mistress of all), but refer some things to fortune, some to ourselves, because necessity is irresponsible, and fortune is unstable, while our own will is free.

Gist of Idea

We should not refer things to irresponsible necessity, but either to fortune or to our own will

Source

Epicurus (Letter to Menoeceus [c.291 BCE], 133), quoted by Diogenes Laertius - Lives of Eminent Philosophers 10.27

Book Reference

Diogenes Laertius: 'Diogenes Laertius', ed/tr. Yonge,C.D. [Henry G. Bohn 1853], p.472