“We become wiser by adversity; prosperity destroys our appreciation of the right.”
- c. 4 BC – AD 65
- Roman
- Philosopher, Statesman, Dramatist, Stoic Thinker, Advisor to Emperor Nero
table of contents
Quote
“We become wiser by adversity; prosperity destroys our appreciation of the right.”
Explanation
Adversity sharpens wisdom, while prosperity often dulls our moral clarity. Seneca the Younger teaches that hardship serves as a teacher, revealing what truly matters and forging strength, humility, and discernment. In contrast, when life is easy and filled with comfort, we can become complacent, self-indulgent, or forgetful of what is just and virtuous.
This reflects the Stoic belief that virtue is best cultivated through trial, not luxury. Adversity forces us to confront our values, test our endurance, and rely on reason. It strips away illusion and exposes character. Prosperity, on the other hand, can tempt us to prioritize pleasure over principle, and to lose sight of justice because everything seems already in our favor.
In today’s world of comfort and abundance, Seneca’s words challenge us to remain grounded. While success and ease are not inherently wrong, they can lead us to ignore the discipline and gratitude that adversity teaches. His insight reminds us that difficulty is not a curse but an opportunity to grow wiser—and that true appreciation of what is right often comes when it is most tested.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
