SR02 · Module
Testing Impressions and Withholding Assent
Stoic cognitive psychology: separating initial impressions (phantasiai) from value judgements, withholding rash assent through Zeno's hand progression, and erasing the added opinion ('I have been harmed') so the second wound never forms.
Cues
Showing 8 of 8 cues
“We are more often frightened than hurt; and we suffer more in imagination than in reality.”
“I don't add to my troubles.”
“For a start, don’t be carried away by [the impression’s] vividness, but say: Wait for me a bit, impression; let me take a look at you and what you are about, let me test you. Next, don’t let it lead you on by painting a picture of what comes next. Otherwise, it is off and away, taking you wherever it wishes. Instead, confront it with another impression, a fine and noble impression, and dismiss this foul one.”
“For, unless you perfectly understand the principle from which anyone acts, how should you know if he acts ill?”
“If you come across any special trait of meanness or stupidity. .you must be careful not to let it annoy or distress you, but to look upon it merely as an addition to your knowledge - a new fact to be considered in studying the character of humanity. Your attitude towards it will be that of the mineralogist who stumbles upon a very characteristic specimen of a mineral.”
“It is not things that trouble us, but our judgements about things.”
“Begin therefore from little things. Is a little oil spilt? A little wine stolen? Say to yourself, “This is the price paid for equanimity, for tranquillity, and nothing is to be had for nothing.”
Zeno chose teaching over court favour
Zeno taught in Athens’ Painted Porch. He declined King Antigonus’ invitations to court and sent associates in his place.