I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others.
Marcus AureliusRead
The world is mere change, and this life, opinion.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Change is the only constant in the world, and our perceptions shape our lives.
In this quote, Marcus Aurelius highlights the transient nature of existence and emphasizes that the world around us is in a continuous state of flux. He suggests that our understanding and opinions about life are subjective and can greatly influence our experiences, urging us to accept change and recognize the power of our perspectives.
Themes
ChangeLifeOpinionPerceptionPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a philosophy class discussion about perception and reality.
More from Marcus Aurelius
All quotes βYou have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
Marcus AureliusRead
Do not act as if you were going to live ten thousand years. Death hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.
Marcus AureliusRead
Vex not thy spirit at the course of things; they heed not thy vexation. How ludicrous and outlandish is astonishment at anything that may happen in life.
Marcus AureliusRead
You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
Marcus AureliusRead
A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
Marcus AureliusRead
Similar quotes
In America, now, let us - Christian, Jew, Muslim, agnostic, atheist, wiccan, whatever - fight nativism with the same strength and conviction that we fight terrorism. My faith calls on its followers to love one's enemies. A tall order, that - perhaps the tallest of all.
Jon MeachamRead
Some prices are just too high, no matter how much you may want the prize. The one thing you can't trade for your heart's desire is your heart.
Lois Mcmaster BujoldRead
No human race is superior; no religious faith is inferior. All collective judgments are wrong. Only racists make them.
Elie WieselRead
In civilized life, law floats in a sea of ethics.
Earl WarrenRead
Things themselves don't hurt or hinder us. Things simply are what they are. How we view these things is another matter.People think what they will think; it is of no concern to us.
EpictetusRead
All lies are told with a straight face. It is truth that's said with a dismissive giggle.
P. J. O'RourkeRead