Single Idea 14522

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 2. Happiness / c. Value of happiness]

Full Idea

One should bring this question to bear on all one's desires: what will happen to me if what is sought by desire is achieved, and what will happen if it is not?

Gist of Idea

What happens to me if I obtain all my desires, and what if I fail?

Source

Epicurus (Principle Doctrines ('Kuriai Doxai') (frags) [c.290 BCE], 71)

Book Reference

Epicurus: 'The Epicurus Reader', ed/tr. Inwood,B. /Gerson,L. [Hackett 1994], p.40


A Reaction

Yet another example of Epicurus moving up a level in his thinking about ethical issues, as in Idea 14517 and Idea 14519. The mark of a true philosopher. This seems to be a key idea for wisdom - to think further ahead than merely what you desire.

Related Ideas

Idea 14517 We value our own character, whatever it is, and we should respect the characters of others [Epicurus]

Idea 14519 It is a great good to show reverence for a wise man [Epicurus]