Are Stoics detached?
Stoics do not practice ‘detachment’ in the sense of being uncaring, or having a lack of feeling. Seneca speaks of the Sage feeling his troubles but overcoming them, his love for his friends, and the pleasure he takes in their company.
What can a person be in control of according to Stoics?
The Enchiridion (“The Manual”) is a short read on stoic advice for living. Epictetus’ practical precepts might change your life. Some things are in our control and others not. Things in our control are opinion, pursuit, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever are our own actions.
What are the problems with stoicism?
The problem with stoicism is that it talks about focussing only on what we can control like thoughts and actions. But we are living in a dynamic world which is full of chaos. Stoicism might not be the right philosophy for our modern world.
Can a Stoic be happy?
Yes, the Stoics can not only be happy but also feel the full range of emotions. They can be happy, sad, angry, or intense, without the need to hide behind faces emptied of expressions. The Stoics feel emotions as given by Nature but do not get overwhelmed by them.
Do Stoics believe in hope?
In the later part of the letter, Seneca reminds Lucilius of the pointlessness of hope. For the Stoics, hope is the opium of fear. The Stoics believe that our fate has been pre-determined and so what’s the sense of clouding our thoughts about what the future holds for us.
Are Stoics allowed to own property?
Yes, Stoics are permitted to own whatever property and possessions they deem necessary. Necessary is an important word though: if it is superfluous, then to seek it out it is only dangerous for maintaining your Stoic mindset, though it may come into your possession by chance.
What are some examples of Stoic practice?
One stoic practice is to imagine that you lost some of your valuable possessions. It may sound depressing initially, but by imagining these losses we come to appreciate what we have more. It’s imperative that we not put too much necessity on the things we have either — for they may not always be there.
What does it mean to be a modern stoic?
The modern Stoic then is someone who’s interested in this philosophy and tries to practice some of its tools. Basically, it’s a student of Stoicism. In the words of Donald Robertson, author of the book Stoicism and the Art of Happiness, “If you’re interested in Stoicism and didn’t die more than four hundred years ago then you’re a ‘modern Stoic.’”
How has Stoicism changed your life?
For the past 18 months I’ve been an avid student of Stoic philosophy. It resonates with me and it helps me to stay calm and optimistic in the most annoying situations. Before my romantic relationship with Stoicism I had an affection for minimalism. It, too, resonated with me and helped me bring order and awareness into my life.