The ancient philosophy of Stoicism is experiencing a resurgence, offering solace and guidance to individuals seeking meaning, purpose, and personal development in today’s turbulent times.
Stoicism, an ancient philosophy that originated in Greece and spread across the Roman Empire, is making a comeback in the modern world. Once considered extinct, Stoicism is now gaining ground, with online communities like The Daily Stoic boasting over 750,000 subscribers. This revival can be attributed to the parallels between the current political climate and the turbulent times of ancient Rome, where Stoicism provided solace and guidance to its practitioners. In an era marked by isolation, depression, and anxiety, Stoicism offers a path to finding community, meaning, and tranquility. As more and more people look beyond mainstream religion for answers, Stoicism provides a comprehensive philosophy that encompasses ethics, physics, and logic, with a primary focus on ethics in modern practice.
The Core Principles of Stoicism
Ancient Stoicism aimed to be a complete philosophy, but modern Stoics primarily focus on ethics. The core principles of modern Stoicism include:
1. Virtue as the highest good: Stoics believe that virtue, encompassing wisdom, temperance, courage, and justice, is the ultimate goal of human flourishing. Material possessions, wealth, and reputation are secondary.
2. Living in accordance with nature and reason: Stoics believe in aligning their beliefs and actions with eternal principles and recognizing the interconnectedness of all things.
3. Recognizing the dichotomy of control: Stoics understand that they can only control their own actions, not external events. This principle fosters resilience and reduces anxiety.
4. The source of discontentment lies in thoughts about external events: Stoics recognize that it is not external events but rather their own judgments and notions about those events that cause distress.
Stoicism in Practice
Stoicism is not just a theoretical philosophy; it is a practical and spiritual way of life. Incorporating spiritual exercises is essential to cultivate core Stoic principles. Some of these exercises include:
1. The “view from above”: Practitioners imagine their life and situations from a bird’s-eye view, gaining perspective on the insignificance of current troubles.
2. Negative visualization: Deliberately contemplating the absence of something valued fosters gratitude and contentment.
3. Journaling: Reflecting on thoughts and actions allows for a more objective assessment of whether one is living in accordance with their principles.
The Way of the Prokopton
Being a practicing Stoic, or a “prokopton,” involves integrating Stoic principles into all aspects of life. Progress, rather than perfection, is the goal. Modern Stoic communities, such as The Daily Stoic, Modern Stoicism, and the College of Stoic Philosophers, provide guidance, support, and a framework for individuals on their Stoic journey. With distinct spiritual exercises and a guiding ethos, Stoicism offers parallels to mainstream religions, serving as a surrogate or complement for those seeking meaning and purpose.
Conclusion:
Stoicism, once considered a relic of the past, has found new relevance in the modern world. As individuals grapple with feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety, Stoicism offers a comprehensive philosophy that provides meaning, purpose, and personal development. By focusing on ethics and incorporating spiritual exercises, Stoicism equips individuals with the tools to navigate life’s challenges and find tranquility. Whether as a standalone philosophy or a complement to mainstream religion, Stoicism continues to resonate with those seeking a path to flourishing in today’s turbulent times.
Leave a Reply