Stoicism Overview and Principles

Overview

This lecture explores the origins, principles, and modern relevance of Stoicism, emphasizing control over one’s reactions to external events and the pursuit of inner virtue.

The Origins of Stoicism

• Zeno of Cyprus, once a wealthy trader, lost everything in a shipwreck, inspiring his philosophy of Stoicism.
• Stoicism teaches acceptance and indifference to things outside our control.
• Zeno founded Stoicism after studying Socratic texts and other philosophers.

Core Principles of Stoic Philosophy

• We cannot control what happens to us, but we control our reactions.
• Stoicism is more than unemotionality; it provides a framework for viewing and understanding life.
• Perspective shapes our experience of events, emphasizing the power of mindset.

Inclusivity and Social Impact

• Stoicism was taught publicly and was open to everyone regardless of status, gender, or origin.
• Notable Stoics included former slaves (Epictetus), statesmen (Seneca), and emperors (Marcus Aurelius).
• Stoics championed equality, even coining "cosmopolitan" (citizen of the world), and supported women’s participation in philosophy.

Practices and Exercises

• Stoics suggest expecting adversity, which prepares us emotionally for challenges.
• “Voluntary discomfort” exercises (e.g., sleeping on the floor, cold showers) build gratitude and resilience.

Stoic Attitude Toward Materialism and Expectation

• Stoicism discourages tying happiness to external possessions or validation.
• True happiness comes from inner values and self-driven improvement.
• Setting value on external outcomes leads to disappointment; focus on internal effort.

The Dichotomy of Control

• The most important Stoic principle is separating what we can control from what we cannot.
• Measure success by effort and process, not uncontrollable results or recognition.

The Four Virtues of Stoicism

• Wisdom: discerning what is within our control and choosing our response.
• Courage: persisting and resisting adversity.
• Temperance: practicing moderation and sufficiency.
• Justice: doing good to others and promoting unity.

Modern Applications and Influence

• Stoic ideas inspire therapies like Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) and Logotherapy.
• REBT challenges and reframes negative thoughts; Logotherapy emphasizes finding meaning in adversity.
• Practicing Stoicism today helps manage emotions and lead a fulfilling life despite uncontrollable circumstances.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Stoicism — A philosophy focused on accepting what we can’t control and mastering our responses.
• Dichotomy of Control — The separation between what is within our power and what is not.
• Voluntary Discomfort — Stoic exercise of enduring hardship intentionally to build gratitude and resilience.
• Virtues (Wisdom, Courage, Temperance, Justice) — Core qualities Stoics strive to embody.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Reflect on situations where you can apply the dichotomy of control.
• Try a voluntary discomfort exercise this week.
• Read more on the four Stoic virtues and identify opportunities to practice them.