What Is Terrible Is Endurable or Limited

Names and terminology

Canonical name: What Is Terrible Is Endurable or Limited

Literal meaning

Pain can often be endured, treated, shortened or placed within a wider perspective.

Broader interpretation

This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.

Historical context

This item belongs to Epicurean Tetrapharmakos. Later Hellenistic Epicurean tradition; Ancient Greek and Roman world.

Practical meaning

Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.

Exceptions and disputes

Some pain is prolonged and overwhelming. The maxim must not be used to minimise another person's suffering or deny treatment.

Variations across schools or traditions

Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.

Modern application

Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Some pain is prolonged and overwhelming. The maxim must not be used to minimise another person's suffering or deny treatment.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

• Wisdom
• Self-control

Sources

• Philodemus of Gadara Academic / peer reviewed