Democritus

Finding Wealth Through Contentment With Less

Transitioning from Democritus's insight, the Stoic philosophers of ancient Rome adopted a similar stance. Figures such as Seneca and Epictetus frequently argued that peace of mind originates from curbing desires, not from accumulating goods. Seneca’s Letters on Ethics describe how one who requires little is not truly poor, for even meager resources can suffice for happiness. This connection bridges Democritus’s thought to broader ethical frameworks. [...]

Beyond Speech: Actions as the True Measure

Delving deeper, the ancient Greeks often distinguished between theory and practice. For instance, in Plato's *Meno* (c. 380 BC), Socrates probes whether virtue can be taught or is shown through behavior. Democritus’s remark aligns with this tradition, warning against relying on rhetoric and urging listeners to seek substance in what people do, not just what they say. [...]

Happiness Resides Not in Possessions, and Not in Gold, Happiness Dwells in the Soul - Democritus

Happiness is closely linked with inner peace and contentment. According to this view, a content and harmonious soul leads to genuine happiness, beyond the reach of material wealth. [...]