Lecture Notes: Stoicism and Its Influence

Introduction to Stoicism

Zeno of Cyprus: Wealthy merchant who lost everything in a shipwreck in Athens around 300 BCE.
Transition to Philosophy: Inspired by Socrates, Zeno studied with philosophers in Athens.
Foundation of Stoicism: Began teaching his philosophy which emphasized virtue, tolerance, and self-control.
Origin of Name: Named after Stoa Poikile, the public colonnade in Athens where discussions were held.

Rational Universe: Belief in a web of cause and effect, known as 'logos'.
Focus: Control over personal responses to the world rather than the world itself.
Four Cardinal Virtues:
- Practical Wisdom: Navigating complex situations logically and calmly.
- Temperance: Exercising self-restraint and moderation.
- Justice: Treating all fairly, irrespective of their actions.
- Courage: Facing daily challenges with integrity, not just extraordinary acts.
Quote by Seneca: "Sometimes, even to live is an act of courage."

Not Self-Centered: Focus on improving oneself to positively impact others.
Treatment of Others: Advocates humane treatment of all, challenging norms like slavery.
Active Philosophy: Emphasizes active virtue cultivation to enable societal change.

Marcus Aurelius: Roman emperor influenced by Stoicism, leading through wars and personal loss.
Influence on Nelson Mandela: Used Marcus's writings during imprisonment, promoting peace and reconciliation post-release.

Influence on Christianity: Adopted virtues admired by theologians like Thomas Aquinas.
Parallels with Buddhism: Similar concepts between Stoic Ataraxia and Buddhist Nirvana.
Epictetus: Promoted the idea that suffering is linked to our judgments, impacting modern psychology.
Modern Psychology:
- Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy: Changes self-defeating attitudes.
- Viktor Frankl's Logotherapy: Harnessing willpower to find life meaning, inspired by Frankl's experiences.