“Not wanting the things is as good as having it” — Socrates
This statement — “Not wanting the things is as good as having it” — attributed to Socrates, reflects a profound ethical and philosophical insight, especially relevant to UPSC GS Paper 4: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude. Let’s unpack and explain it in a UPSC-appropriate manner:
📌 Explanation:
Socrates’ assertion, “Not wanting the things is as good as having it,” emphasizes the value of inner contentment and detachment from material desires. In ethical terms, it conveys that true happiness lies not in possessing external goods, but in cultivating a state of mind where one is not enslaved by desires.
In simpler terms, if an individual does not crave wealth, luxury, or power, then their mental state is similar to someone who possesses these things — without the stress, insecurity, or ethical compromises often associated with acquiring and keeping them.
🧠 Ethical Interpretation:
- Freedom from Desire = Freedom from Suffering:
- According to many ethical schools (including Stoicism and Indian philosophies like Buddhism), desire is the root of suffering.
- By eliminating unnecessary wants, one achieves self-mastery and peace.
- Ethical Self-Sufficiency:
- In governance or public service, a civil servant who does not crave wealth or status is less likely to be corrupt or compromise ethical values.
- Contentment enhances integrity.
- Moral Minimalism:
- This idea aligns with Gandhian ethics, where Gandhi said, “The world has enough for everyone’s need, but not everyone’s greed.”
- Reducing wants is a path to ethical living and sustainability.
🌱 Real-Life Example:
A young civil servant posted in a rural area may not have access to urban luxuries. However, if they are internally content, they will not feel deprived, and can focus fully on their duties and service. On the other hand, if they constantly compare themselves to peers in corporate sectors, their dissatisfaction may lead to frustration or even unethical behavior.
🧩 Philosophical Linkages:
- Stoicism (Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius): Happiness lies in controlling one’s desires, not in external events.
- Indian Philosophy (Bhagavad Gita): Practice of Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) and Santosha (contentment) leads to peace.
- Utilitarian View: If a person is not unhappy due to absence of a good, then the utility of having it is nullified.
🏁 Conclusion:
Socrates reminds us that ethical living begins with mastering our desires. In public life and personal conduct, freedom from wants leads to freedom from fear, corruption, and compromise, thus nurturing a more resilient, ethical, and fulfilled personality.
