109-122

The authenticity of the “person” according to Epictetus

• Μάρκος, Αντώνιος Γ.

The notion that every human being is a “person ”, bearing distinct individual traits, is fundamental in ancient Greek thought, and especially in the philosophy of Epictetus. The great stoic philosopher was very sensitive on this subject, indicating in his works various ways of preserving the quality of “person”. He therefore enumerates the factors that could result in a loss of human individuality, such as the degradation of the traits distinguishing humans from animals or the tendency to social conformity generated by the fear of appearing different. Free choice (prohairesis) and will (boulesis) are, according to Epictetus, the two most valuable assets in our struggle to avoid alienation and loss of personality.

• Philosophy, Ethics and Religion
• Sociology

• Φιλοσοφία, Αρχαία
• Κοινωνιολογία