Stoicism
Justine Joo
Quick History Founded in Greece by
Zeno of Citium (334-262 BC) From the “stoa” where he
would teach his students Was one of the most
popular philosophies during the Hellenistic period along with Epicureanism
Eventually died out in the 3rd century AD from the rise of Christianity
Philosophy Has no interest in normal human feelings
Grief, Joy, Hope, Fear Free of worldly demands, especially pleasure-
seeking Ascete – one who has transcended the passions
that create a disorderly condition in the soul Knowledge is attained through reason Believed in the Socratic equation
Virtue = Knowledge If one behaves in a certain dispassionate
manner, guarantees complete well-being, or human excellence
Philosophy cont… Similar to Aristotelian notion that good
consists of acting in accordance with one’s nature
However, must act in accordance with nature itself Totality of reality
Reality is perfect. Therefore, humans are perfect if they
live in accordance with the divine plan of reality
Philosophy cont… Recognize the truth that a person can do
nothing but conform to the grand design Requires one to make desires identical with the
overall providential plan of the universe Unhappiness and unfreedom are the
consequences of those who try to impose their own selfish desire on reality
Only way to be free is to want what the universe wants
Get what we desire = NO Desire what we get = YES
Famous Stoics Seneca (4-65 AD)
Dramatist, statesman that was told to commit suicide by Nero
Epictetus (1st century AD) Was a slave
Marcus Aurelius (121-180 AD) 16th Emperor of the Roman
Empire
Range of people followed the Stoic belief of resignation Disdain for attachment to
earthly things
Stoicism & Suicide In certain circumstances, advocated suicide Human excellence could be overwhelming
Harshness of reality could disturb one’s inner equilibrium
Could cause pain, anxiety Enlightenment was indifferent
One had every right to escape through suicide
Stoicism & Christianity Similarities
Doctrine of resignation Concern with conforming to the will of divine Providence
Differences Stoicism
Advocated suicide to prevent from going against divine plan of the world
Perfection - Reality Christianity
Was prohibited by the same divine plan Perfection - God
Christianity became dominant religion of the Roman Empire by the 4th century