In this passage from Epictetus's "Handbook," the author critiques flawed reasoning that equates wealth or eloquence with moral superiority. He highlights that claiming one is better based on material wealth or verbal skill lacks coherence, failing to consider the intrinsic value of an individual. Wealth and eloquence can lead to comparisons of external attributes, but they do not define a person’s worth or character.

By contrast, Epictetus emphasizes the logical coherence in the idea that someone with more wealth possesses greater material things, and someone with greater eloquence has superior expression. However, he argues that people should not be defined solely by their possessions or speech, as these do not capture the essence of their being. The true value lies beyond superficial traits, suggesting a deeper moral and philosophical understanding of what constitutes a person’s worth.