According to Epictetus, which of the following is under our control?

Epictetus, as a Stoic philosopher, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between what is within our control and what is not. According to his teachings, our opinions or judgments about events, situations, and experiences are indeed within our control. This means that we have the ability to choose how we perceive and respond to the world around us, which is a central tenet of Stoic philosophy.

In this context, our opinions are rooted in our beliefs, perspectives, and the interpretations we make about our experiences. Since these mental processes are governed by our own rational faculties, they fall under our personal domain of control. This emphasis on internal choice is a key aspect of achieving emotional resilience and maintaining tranquility in the face of external challenges.

In contrast, wealth, the opinions of other people, and reputation are factors largely influenced by external circumstances and the actions of others, which are beyond our direct control. For instance, we cannot dictate how wealthy we become, how others perceive us, or how our reputation is shaped by public sentiment. By focusing on our opinions, Stoicism encourages individuals to take responsibility for their own thoughts and reactions, fostering a mindset that leads to greater inner peace and understanding of one’s own agency.