Plain
Seneca — The Senator

Sometimes we see the offense happen right in front of us. When this happens, we should look at who did it and why they did it. Maybe it's a child — let's forgive their youth, since they don't know they're doing something wrong. Or maybe it's a father who has done so much good for us that he's earned the right to wrong us sometimes. Or maybe this thing that bothers us is actually his greatest strength. Or it's a woman who simply made a mistake. Or the person was just following orders. Only an unfair person gets angry at someone who was forced to act. Maybe you hurt him first — well, there's nothing wrong with getting back the pain you started.

On Anger, Book 2, Section 30 Book 2 · 79 of 103
Human Nature Calm Your Mind
Seneca — The Senator Original

Some offences we ourselves witness: in these cases let us examine the disposition and purpose of the offender. Perhaps he is a child; let us pardon his youth, he knows not whether he is doing wrong: or he is a father; he has either rendered such great services, as to have won the right even to wrong us—or perhaps this very act which offends us is his chief merit: or a woman; well, she made a mistake. The man did it because he was ordered to do it. Who but an unjust person can be angry with what is done under compulsion? You had hurt him: well, there is no wrong in suffering the pain which you have been the first to inflict.

On Anger, Book 2, Section 30 Book 2 · 79 of 103
Seneca — The Senator

The same person who told you bad things about your friend won't repeat his story if he has to prove it. "Don't call me as a witness," he says. "If you do, I'll deny everything I told you. And unless you promise not to drag me into this, I'll never tell you anything again." He pushes you to get angry, then runs away from any real confrontation. Someone who will only whisper accusations is barely telling you anything at all. What could be more unfair than believing secret rumors while showing your anger in public?

On Anger, Book 2, Section 29 Book 2 · 78 of 103
Human Nature Doing The Right Thing
Seneca — The Senator Original

This very man who has informed against your friend, will say no more if he be obliged to prove what he says. "You need not," says he, "bring me forward as a witness; if I am brought forward I shall deny what I have said; unless you excuse me from appearing I shall never tell you anything." At the same time he spurs you on and withdraws himself from the strife and battle. The man who will tell you nothing save in secret hardly tells you anything at all. What can be more unjust than to believe in secret, and to be angry openly?

On Anger, Book 2, Section 29 Book 2 · 78 of 103
‹ Previous Next ›

Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

About · Support