Challenge the Thought of Moral Progress

May 13, 2020 –

I think it is reasonable to assume ordinary people live and think change has significantly affected our view on goodness, happiness, principles, and inner serenity. But have we developed into a kinder and more caring generation? Are we happier and more fulfilled by avoiding the personal conduct rules of the past?

Has society has made moral progress?

Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher who lived around 55 A.D., wrote to help ordinary people meet the challenges of everyday life. Here are a few of his 2,000-year-old-thoughts.

  • First, say to yourself what you would be; then do what you have to do.
  • It is not things that disturb us, but our interpretation of their significance.
  • There is nothing to be gain in blaming, whether it be others or oneself.
  • We are ultimately controlled by that which we seek or remove what we don’t want.
  • It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.
  • Men are disturbed not by things but by the view which they take of them.

Over 2,000 years ago, an itinerate Galilean teacher and Son of God put forth these principles to help people meet the challenges of everyday life.

  • Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
  • For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, everyone who humbles himself will be exalted.
  • So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.

Is it possible to say these 2,000 year-old-guidelines for living have significantly affected our view on goodness, happiness, principles, and inner serenity?