Stoicism: A Philosophy for the 21st Century
Stoicism, founded by Zeno of Citium in the 3rd century BC, offers a profound understanding of the universe’s order through reason, or logos. This ancient philosophy emphasizes living in harmony with nature and focusing on what we can control.
Stoicism is a philosophical school founded by Zeno of Citium in the 3rd century BC in Athens. It is based on the idea that the universe is governed by a divine and ordered reason, called logos, in which humans participate. Stoicism encourages us to live in accordance with nature, namely our own rational and social nature, and the nature of the cosmos, which determines the destiny of everything that exists. Stoicism teaches us that the only thing under our control is our actions and reactions, and we must exercise them with wisdom and virtue. Thus, we can achieve happiness, understood as a state of inner harmony and serenity, independent of external circumstances.
Stoicism and Science
Stoicism is not only an ethics but also a physics and a logic. Stoics were interested in the study of nature and developed theories about the origin, structure, and functioning of the universe. Some of their ideas anticipated modern scientific concepts such as the law of conservation of matter, atomic theory, or biological evolution. Stoics also formulated a logical system based on the analysis of propositions, syllogisms, and signs. Their logic aimed to ensure the coherence and validity of reasoning while avoiding fallacies and contradictions. Stoics considered science an essential part of philosophy, enabling a better understanding of reality and guiding action in accordance with it.
Practical Tools of Stoicism
Stoicism is not just a theory but also a practice. Stoics propose a series of mental exercises and daily habits to apply their principles to our lives. Some of these tools include:
— The Dichotomy of Control: Distinguishing between what depends on us and what does not, and acting accordingly. Focusing on what we can control (our actions and reactions) and accepting with equanimity what we cannot control (external events) helps avoid unnecessary suffering caused by desire or fear of things beyond our power.
— The Cosmic Perspective: Adopting a broader and more objective view of our situation, remembering that we are a small and insignificant part of the universe. This perspective helps us contextualize our problems, view them from an emotional distance, and appreciate the order and beauty of the cosmos.
— Premeditation of Evils: Imagining in advance the possible obstacles or difficulties we may encounter on our path and preparing ourselves to face them with strength and prudence. This technique allows us to be more alert, prepared, and resilient in the face of adversity.
— Morning and Evening Reflection: Dedicate a few minutes at the beginning and end of the day to review our purposes, actions, and results. In the morning, recall stoic principles and plan our goals for the day. At night, evaluate our performance and acknowledge our successes and mistakes. This practice makes us more aware, consistent, and progressive on our path to wisdom.
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that can offer much in the 21st century. It provides a rational and ordered view of the universe, an ethics based on virtue and happiness, and a set of practical tools to enhance our lives. By adopting a stoic attitude, we can find more peace, freedom, and meaning in our existence.
References
El Rincón de Aquiles. Estoicismo, ciencia y herramientas prácticas con Polymatas. El Rincón de Aquiles. https://elrincondeaquiles.com/podcast/estoicismo-ciencia-polymatas/
Enciclopedia de Historia. What is Stoicism? — Origin, characteristics, and philosophers. https://enciclopediadehistoria.com/estoicismo/
Gálvez, J. (2017). Knowledge as a way of life: the case of the Stoics. Redalyc. https://www.redalyc.org/pdf/4138/413835206006.pdf
