Stoicism: Philosophy of Tranquility, Virtue, and Living According to Nature

| Stoicism |

| Zeno |

| Epictetus |

| Seneca |

1. Origins of Stoicism

Stoicism was founded around 300 BCE by Zeno of Citium in Athens. The name comes from the "Painted Stoa" (Stoa Poikile), where Zeno lectured. Unlike abstract theorists, Stoics saw philosophy as training for life itself.

2. Core Principles of Stoicism

Living according to nature: Aligning with reason and cosmic order
Virtue: The highest good, including wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance
Dichotomy of control: Focusing only on what is in our power
Inner tranquility: Freedom from destructive emotions through rational understanding

3. The Four Cardinal Virtues

Virtue	Definition
Wisdom	Knowing what is right and wrong
Justice	Treating others fairly and honoring duty
Courage	Enduring hardship and fear with resolve
Temperance	Maintaining balance and self-control

4. Prominent Stoic Figures

Zeno of Citium: Founder; divided philosophy into logic, physics, and ethics
Seneca: Roman statesman and author of moral letters
Epictetus: Former slave and Stoic teacher emphasizing personal discipline
Marcus Aurelius: Roman emperor and author of Meditations

5. Dichotomy of Control

Epictetus teaches:

"The chief task in life is simply this: to distinguish between what is within our control and what is not."

Our thoughts, actions, and judgments are in our control; wealth, status, and death are not.

6. Attitude Toward Death and Suffering

Stoics view death as natural and inevitable. Suffering arises when we expect the universe to obey our desires. Acceptance of fate and serenity in adversity are key to Stoic peace.

7. Practical Applications

Managing anger and anxiety
Moral clarity in difficult decisions
Resilience in face of loss or failure
Practicing gratitude and moderation

8. Historical and Cultural Influence

Stoicism shaped Roman philosophy, early Christian ethics, Islamic thought, and modern psychology (especially CBT). Today, “Stoic calm” still describes enduring grace under pressure.

9. Conclusion

Stoics offer a path of inner strength, reason, and moral clarity. Their philosophy is not passive resignation but active mastery of self and a deep harmony with nature and reality.