“If you seek truth, you will not seek to gain a victory by every possible means; and when you have found truth, you need not fear being defeated.”
What this quote means
This quote by Epictetus contrasts the search for truth with the will to win at all costs. He who sincerely seeks truth is open to questioning and does not fear being wrong. In contrast, he who wants to win by any means is a prisoner of his ego and prejudices. Truth frees us from the fear of defeat because it is not a competition. Adopting this attitude makes us more honest, humble, and wise.
How to apply it daily
In a debate or discussion, let go of the idea of winning. Instead, seek to understand the other person's perspective and discover what is true.
Reading guide
Which book should you read to discover Epictetus?
Our starting point
A short, practical first approach
Enchiridion
In a few pages, it sets out the central distinction between what depends on us and what does not.
- Level
- Accessible
- Reading time
- 1–2 hours
- Formats to compare
- Print · Ebook · Audio
Merchant links help compare editions. Recommendations are editorially independent.
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