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Stoicism is Not Enough
Stoicism isn’t only for men.
While digging myself out of depression and engaging with Cal Newport’s work, I finally was ready to invite Stoic modes of living into my life. These concepts underpin much of cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy. The idea that we can control our reactions even if we can’t control what happens stands in opposition
... See moreWe are looking to tie our well-being to our own actions, not those of others. The idea is simple, but its execution can feel difficult. The Stoics have little sympathy for the fact we are deeply social creatures, taking our cues from our peers and routinely being made to act against our values. So we can hold the image of the perfect Stoic sage bef
... See moreDerren Brown • Happy: Why More or Less Everything is Absolutely Fine
I have presented Stoicism as I think the Stoics intended it to be used. They did not invent Stoicism for the amusement of future philosophers. To the contrary, they can best be understood as toolmakers, and Stoicism is the tool they invented. It is a tool that, if used properly, they thought would enable a person to live a good life.
William B. Irvine • A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy
I would like to suggest, though, that Cato and the other Stoics found a way to retain their tranquility despite their involvement with the world around them: They internalized their goals. Their goal was not to change the world, but to do their best to bring about certain changes. Even if their efforts proved to be ineffectual, they could neverthel
... See moreWilliam B. Irvine • A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy
Cicero’s central disagreement with what he perceived to be standard Stoic ethical belief was that he saw it as entirely unrealistic. He suggested (in the Pro Murena and elsewhere) that the ideal of the Stoic wise person had no relationship with lived reality. Moreover, the Stoic ideal is not even ideal, since the Stoic wise person is far too cut of
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