Men are disturbed, not by things but by the principles and notions which they form concerning things [Epictetus]

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Stoic Epictetus School of Thought

• Emphasis on: The only good or bad in life is what we bring to it
• Existence is an opportunity to act

Men are disturbed, not by things but by the principles and notions which they form concerning things [Epictetus]

  It was taught that philosophy was a way of life, not just a school of thought. Just as how destiny seems to pull us into its inevitable, these are just external things that are beyond our control. Epictetus believes that we should calmly and indifferently recognize this fact. Yet, not by fate but by the individual's actions can the outcome be justified. For each persons is responsible for their own action by which they can reflect, examine and control through strict self discipline.

  Interesting facts (from book): 

• Stoic Thinking is at the heart of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

  CBT is used to address faulty thoughts and beliefs by acting on them, those of which are cognitive distortions that cause psychological problems. Of which, it alleviates the suffering by challenging the interpretation. 

  For example, self-esteem of a reclusive teenage is low because he feels that every time he is in public, everyone is judging what he dresses and his less then average looking face. This leads to a certain phobia of crowds and the teen hides at home most of the time.

  CBT will than take that interpretation 'everyone is watching me' and break it apart. For it is a faulty thought. Once the teen realizes that perhaps most people do not even bother to look much into others and that all the glances were self-delusion; then perhaps he will no longer fear such crowds. (layman explanation)

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