Crows pick out the eyes of the dead, when the dead have no longer need of them; but flatterers mar the soul of the living, and her eyes they blind.
EpictetusRead
In theory it is easy to convince an ignorant person; in actual life, men not only object to offer themselves to be convinced, but hate the man who has convinced them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often resist being convinced of something, especially by others, due to pride or ignorance.
Epictetus highlights a common paradox in human nature: while it may seem straightforward in theory to persuade someone who lacks knowledge, in practice, individuals often resist such persuasion. This resistance may stem from a sense of pride or discomfort with being wrong, leading them to harbor resentment towards those who attempt to enlighten them.
Themes
ConvincingIgnoranceResistanceHuman NaturePersuasion
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate on social media, one might quote Epictetus to point out the futility of trying to change someone's deeply held beliefs.
More from Epictetus
All quotes →Learn to distinguish what you can and can't control. Within our control are our own opinions, aspirations, desires and the things that repel us. They are directly subject to our influence.
EpictetusRead
Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
EpictetusRead
Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn't be affected by an incident unless you let it.
EpictetusRead
The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
EpictetusRead
Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
EpictetusRead
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