The Stoic View on Self-Interest: What Epictetus Really Meant

“For universally (and you should not be deceived on this) every living creature is attached to nothing so strongly as it is to its own interest.”

Epictetus, The Discourses, Book Two, Chapter 22.12

What does Epictetus mean by saying that we are most attached to our self-interests? At first glance, this might sound selfish, but in Stoicism, self-interest does not mean selfish. It refers to our deepest attachment to what we think is good for us. And that is where the real challenge begins.

To the Stoic, the good is not wealth, reputation, or pleasure. It is virtue, living in accordance with reason and nature. When Epictetus says we cling to our interests above all else, he is urging us to examine what we believe our interests to be.

The Stoic view on self-interest is that it must be realigned with nature, not distorted by opinion or impulse. This means turning our attention inward and cultivating reason, character, and self-mastery. Our attachments aren’t the problem; it’s what we attach ourselves to. To reach a state of Eudaimonia, we must place our priority on maintaining a state of good character and spirit.

Practical Reflections or Insights

• Examine your judgments: What do you believe is good for you? Status? Control? Approval? The Stoics would say these are externals, not true goods. Pause and reflect on whether your desires align with who you are and what is virtuous.
  
• Redirect your attachment: If you naturally pursue your own interest, make sure that “interest” is virtue. Ask yourself daily, “Is this choice consistent with the kind of person I want to be?”
  
• Practice self-awareness: As Epictetus often reminds us, we are rational beings. The more clearly we understand what truly benefits us, wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance, the freer and more content we become.
  

The stoic view on self-interest is not a rejection of the self, but a redefinition of what it means to care for it well.

Check out the conversation we had on the Via Stoica Podcast with Will Johncock on his book, Beyond the Individual. Here we discussed how interconnectedness is also part of what is good for us. You can find it here: Will Johncock on the Via Stoica Podcast.

FAQ Section

What is the Stoic view on self-interest?
Stoics believe self-interest is natural, but must be guided by reason. True self-interest means aligning your choices with virtue and nature, not with external rewards or pleasures.

Did Epictetus believe self-interest is bad?
No, Epictetus believed self-interest is inevitable and natural, but that we often misunderstand what our real interests are. For Stoics, it’s about redefining interest as living a virtuous life.

How do Stoics suggest we manage selfish desires?
By using reason to examine our impulses and focusing on what is truly in our control. When we prioritize virtue, selfish desires lose their grip.

Want to explore more Stoic strategies?

Book a free consultation with one of our Stoic Coaches or read more on the Epictetus Quotes page. You can also listen to the Via Stoica podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or watch it on YouTube.