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]