As a student, I learned the following maxim. It summarizes the path of learning and the virtuous course of a person intent on knowledge and wisdom:

An ignorant person is inclined to blame others for his own misfortune. To blame oneself is proof of progress. But the wise man never has to blame another or himself (Epictetus, The Enchiridion).

The idea is that ultimately one understands why things happen. In a universal or holistic sense (i.e. wisdom), this is an end by itself (as knowledge) but also a means to the good life. Such knowing removes the vulgar if ever popular need to ascribe blame or praise.

Second, those who are learning, trying or growing in understanding should first look to themselves in a situation, not others. What I do to contribute to a positive or negative outcome, or to a discussion of alternatives or an argument, is as important or more than “being right,” “winning” or siding with or against others.

Finally, too many of us, in particular matters or generally, just blame others. That is the mark of a fool or the uninstructed, as well as one open to being used. If one spends most of his or her time ascribing blame, it’s a setup for the person whose answers look perfect,........

© The Korea Times