Christian Sogaard

September 23, 2007

Ancient Philosophy

Question #1
The ancient discussion between Zeus and Cyniscus roused controversial philosophical questions.

Do the God’s hold control over the lives of human beings, or are they too simply subjects of cosmic

forces? Are humans morally responsible for their actions if they are subjects of fate? Cyniscus digs into

beliefs held at that time, and uproots some thoughts which are in need of clarification. The Attic Nights

passage also evaluates the notion of fate and one’s ability to choose. A comparison of these passages

reveals something which allows one to clarify what is possible and impossible in their lives.

Gellius seems to suggest that one’s moral choices are largely dependent upon one’s situation in

which they have been placed in life (determined by fate); whether they have been fashioned in a

healthy way or in a harsh, ignorant, uncultured way. (Annas 20) We all receive impressions when

certain situations arise, regardless of our state of being, but our individual nature and character, which

appears to be formed by our parents, environment, etc…, seem to be the deciding factor in what causes

us to act a certain way. One is responsible to decide which actions to take in certain situations. Because

of this, fate seems to be reduced to nothing more than a lens which one chooses to pear through. Fate

is a reflective state of mind which seems to suggest necessity throughout one’s life. It’s quite simple to

see one’s life as fated, yet when the mindset of fate is applied to one’s present state of affairs, alternate

beliefs slip in. Logically, to see one’s life as fated does not leave one with a sense of purpose for

continuing existance. If one feels it does, it’s because that person called to mind a sense of purpose

rather than retaining the belief of fate.

 Amidst Cyniscus’ argument, he seems to have a fit of emotion where he realizes that he cannot

come to any logical conclusion about fate:

For my part, when I die I shall find out for certain whether there is really any such thing, but for
the present I prefer to live out my time in happiness, however short it may be…(Annas 10)

Cyniscus calls to attention the purpose which he believes he lives for; happiness. If this is truly

the ultimate pursuit for Cyniscus and everyone else, then everything which is not happiness seems to be

another object (such as arguments of fate) on the journey toward a greater state of being.

Gellius suggests that the lives we live are bound by some sort of fate. It may be considered

impossible to change one’s fate, but a possibility still exists among fate; choosing ones perception of

their present actions. Cyniscus argues fate with Zeus; the discussion leads him away from fate, and to a

more contented state of being. Whether fate exists seems to be of modest importance, for the

significance lies within the deliberation of fate.