The ancient philosophy of Stoicism is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with online communities and college courses dedicated to its principles. In a world grappling with isolation and anxiety, Stoicism offers a path to finding meaning, purpose, and personal development.
Stoicism, an ancient philosophy that originated in Greece and spread throughout the Roman Empire, is making a comeback in the digital age. Often misunderstood as a philosophy of unemotional detachment, Stoicism is finding new relevance as people seek answers outside of mainstream religion and grapple with feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety. The United States’ current political climate has drawn parallels to the turbulent period of ancient Rome, where Stoicism helped its practitioners find community, meaning, and tranquility. With the help of the internet, Stoicism is gaining ground, attracting a wide range of followers who are drawn to its core principles and practical applications.
The Core Principles of Stoicism
Ancient Stoicism aimed to be a comprehensive philosophy encompassing ethics, physics, and logic. However, modern Stoics primarily focus on ethics and adopt four core principles. The first principle asserts that virtue is the only or highest good, encompassing wisdom, temperance, courage, and justice. Material possessions, wealth, and reputation are considered secondary to the pursuit of virtue. The second principle emphasizes living in accordance with nature or reason, aligning beliefs and actions with eternal principles and recognizing the interconnectedness of all things. The third principle highlights the importance of recognizing that individuals can only control their own actions, not external events. This dichotomy allows Stoics to focus on what is within their control and find peace in accepting the uncontrollable. The fourth principle emphasizes the role of thoughts in causing discontentment or distress, encouraging individuals to examine and reshape their beliefs about external events.
Stoicism in Practice
Stoicism is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a practical and spiritual way of life. Incorporating spiritual exercises, or “spiritual projects,” is essential for Stoic practitioners to cultivate core principles and achieve personal growth. One such exercise is the “view from above,” which encourages individuals to imagine their life and current troubles from a broader perspective, gaining a sense of insignificance and tranquility. Another exercise, known as “negative visualization,” involves contemplating the absence of something valued, fostering gratitude and contentment. Journaling to plan and review one’s day is also a common practice, providing an objective way to assess whether one is living in accordance with Stoic principles.
The Way of the Prokopton
Being a practicing Stoic, or a “prokopton,” involves embracing Stoic principles as guiding principles in all aspects of life. Progress, rather than perfection, is the goal, and engaging with Stoic ideas alongside other philosophical or religious beliefs is encouraged. Today, there are several online communities dedicated to Stoicism, such as The Daily Stoic, Modern Stoicism, and the College of Stoic Philosophers. These communities provide support, guidance, and a framework for individuals to explore and apply Stoic principles in their daily lives. Stoicism, with its distinctive spiritual exercises and guiding principles, offers a path to personal growth and a sense of purpose that parallels many mainstream religions.
Conclusion:
As society grapples with feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety, Stoicism is experiencing a renaissance. Its core principles of virtue, living in accordance with reason, recognizing what is within one’s control, and managing thoughts about external events resonate with individuals seeking meaning and tranquility. Stoicism’s practical applications, such as the “view from above” and “negative visualization,” provide tools for personal growth and resilience. While Stoicism may not align with all aspects of mainstream religion, its principles can serve as a complement or surrogate for those seeking a guiding ethos. Stoicism, both ancient and modern, offers a path to human flourishing and a philosophy of life that can provide structure, purpose, and a sense of fulfillment in an increasingly complex world.
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