PROKOPE is ‘improvement’. In the context of our philosophy, it means the advancement along the way to reach the four cardinal virtues. In other words, it indicates the steps forward leading to self-control (<sophrosyne>), courage (<andreia>), righteousness (<dikayosine>), and wisdom (<phronesis>).

For instance, Epiktetos (Epictetus) 4.2. 1–5 says that hanging out with the wrong people can significantly hinder our progress to grow better. So, this is an example of things which invalidate our progression, our advanvement. Gaius Musonius Rufus (Musonius Rufus) touches the same topic in Lectures 11.53. 21–22.

<Prokope> is ‘improvement’. But it is very difficult to assess one’s progression. In fact, here we are talking of virtues and qualities which are not scientifically measurable. There are no objective ways to evaluate dignity, decency, fortitude or integrity. As an example, is it a philosophical advancement not to intervene in the row between two people? Someone might think that not intervening is a sign of composure, self-restraint and the ability not to behave in impulsive ways. In a few words, the decision of refraining would be a sign of advancement on the way to become wiser. Nonetheless, for other people, the decision of forebearing might be a sign of cowardice, pusillanimity, indecision and other negative defects.

For all these reasons, an important role is left to soul-searching. In our philosophy, it is the rare ability of self-evaluating and self-testing oneself. Because we are the best people when it comes to criticize the others and the worst people in assessing ourselves. Therefore it is a duty to develop this capacity.