To a longer and worse life, a shorter and better is by all means to be preferred.

What did Epictetus mean by:

To a longer and worse life, a shorter and better is by all means to be preferred.

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This quote is essentially advocating for quality over quantity. It suggests that it’s better to live a shorter life that is filled with happiness, fulfillment, and purpose, rather than a long life that is full of suffering, unhappiness, or devoid of meaning.

The quote underscores the importance of how we live our lives, not just how long we live. It urges us to focus on what makes our lives truly valuable and worthwhile. This might involve pursuing our passions, maintaining strong relationships, or contributing to the well-being of others.

In today’s world, this quote is highly relevant. We live in a society that is often focused on prolonging life at all costs. Medical advancements have made it possible to extend life expectancy, but this does not always equate to a better quality of life.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to prioritize what truly matters in life. Instead of striving for longevity without considering the quality of life, we should aim for a life that is rich in experiences, learning, and personal growth. It encourages us to make the most of our time and to live fully, regardless of the length of our life.

In a broader societal context, this quote could be seen as a critique of a culture that values quantity over quality, whether it’s in terms of material possessions, work hours, or even lifespan. It’s a call to shift our focus towards creating a society that values and promotes a better quality of life for all, rather than simply aiming to increase the quantity of life.

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