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PHAncient philosophical perspectives
Stoicism:
Stoic philosophers focused on inner virtue, wisdom, and resilience. For them, seeking external validation—like being liked—was a sign that an individual's happiness and tranquility were not within their own control.
Marcus Aurelius:
The Roman Emperor and Stoic thinker noted that even if one lives a good life, there will always be people who welcome one's downfall. He concluded that seeking approval and remembrance is foolish, as the reward for doing the right thing must be the right thing itself, not the approval of others.
The dichotomy of control:
A core Stoic principle is distinguishing between what is in our control and what is not. The approval of others is not within our control, so a Stoic would consider it a waste of time and mental energy to fret over it.
Plato:
While not directly attributed with this specific quote, Plato's philosophy valued independent rational thought over popular opinion. He critiqued the Greek doxa, or "common sense," for being full of errors and prejudice, and cautioned against basing one's values on the influence of popular culture.
Why Dostoevsky's Works Can Feel Like "Yapping"
Psychological Depth: Dostoevsky excels at delving into the inner lives of his characters, showcasing their complex moral dilemmas, inner darkness, and psychological struggles in great detail.
Philosophical and Moral Exploration: His novels are filled with deep philosophical discussions and ethical questions about the nature of good, evil, and the human condition.
Long-Form Dialogue and Monologue:
These explorations often take the form of lengthy dialogues and internal monologues, which can feel verbose and slow the narrative for some readers.
Intricate Character Development: The sheer number of characters and their detailed backstories and motivations contribute to the density of the novels.
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