Talk:Principal Doctrine 7

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We should welcome praise from others if it comes unsought, but we should also be engaged in treating ourselves.[V.S. 64]. Self-esteem on fame is built on sand. The cost is living in the opinion of others. One knows to be happy more frequently by other people's testimony than by the one's own. And even a President is successful usually 53%, almost a loser. The one who bows to applauses knows that most of those present wouldn't recall even a motive, do not recognize a cadence, and their concern is not to clap before time (the usefulness of the claque, or of coteries for the young hopefuls). “Success among common people is won with common art ” [Sen. Ad Luc. 29] The Epicurean is proud of his possible autarkeia, of making himself pleased, even though he is no genius. “be liked by yourself more than by common people, estimate the basis, not the number of approvals” [Sen. Ad Luc. 29]. Living secluded rule works for avoid vain hope of glory: too much token or violent competition for debatable instinctual advantage: children of more coquette or high-ranking women aren't the best children for a philosopher. The talents are useful, if they yield (Horace), otherwise a pastime. The Epicurean must in any case avoid contempt, whose aftermaths are too tangible for minorities.

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