L. Annaeus Seneca on Benefits by Lucius Annaeus Seneca

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About this eBook

Author Seneca, Lucius Annaeus, 5? BCE-65
Translator Stewart, Aubrey, 1844-1918
Title L. Annaeus Seneca on Benefits
Credits Produced by Charles Franks, Robert Rowe, David Widger, and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team
Summary "On Benefits" by Lucius Annaeus Seneca is a philosophical treatise written in the early 2nd century AD. This work delves into the intricacies of human relationships, focusing particularly on the concepts of giving, receiving, and reciprocating benefits. Seneca explores the moral dimensions of these interactions, emphasizing the importance of intention behind acts of kindness and the rampant issue of ingratitude within society. At the start of the text, Seneca introduces the topic by lamenting humanity's failure to properly bestow or accept benefits, suggesting that this leads to societal discord. He discusses various reasons for ingratitude and reflects on the nature of benefits themselves, positing that the true essence of a benefit lies not in material goods but in the goodwill of the giver. He argues for the careful selection of recipients for one’s generosity, highlighting the necessity of giving thoughtfully and sincerely to foster gratitude, while also urging individuals to cultivate a sense of gratitude and responsibility when receiving benefits. Ultimately, Seneca sets the stage for a rich, philosophical examination of ethics in personal interactions throughout the remainder of the work. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PA: Language and Literatures: Classical Languages and Literature
Subject Classical literature
Subject Essays
Subject Conduct of life
Subject Benevolence
Category Text
EBook-No. 3794
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Feb 8, 2013
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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