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The Stoics and their Idea of the Dichotomy of Control

The Stoics and their idea of The Dichotomy of Control

Stoicism was a school of philosophy that originated in ancient Greece around the 3rd century BCE, but it flourished predominantly in ancient Rome. The philosophy was founded by Zeno of Citium. Stoicism taught a system of ethics that emphasized personal virtue, reason, and self-control as the path to eudaimonia, which can be translated as “happiness,” “flourishing,” or “fulfillment.”

Key figures in Stoicism include:

  1. Zeno of Citium (circa 334 – circa 262 BCE):
  1. Zeno of Citium was the founder of Stoicism. Originally from Cyprus, Zeno moved to Athens and began teaching philosophy around 300 BCE. He studied under various philosophers, including Crates of Thebes (a Cynic philosopher) and the Platonist Xenocrates. Zeno’s teachings emphasized the pursuit of virtue, self-control, and living in accordance with nature. He established the Stoic school in Athens, where he lectured in the Stoa Poikile, or “Painted Porch,” from which Stoicism derives its name.
  2. Cleanthes (c. 330 – c. 230 BCE):
    • Cleanthes succeeded Zeno as the head of the Stoic school. He was one of Zeno’s earliest students and made significant contributions to Stoic doctrine. Cleanthes is known for his hymn to Zeus, which reflects Stoic theology and cosmology. He emphasized the importance of living in harmony with nature and developing resilience through self-discipline.
  3. Chrysippus (c. 279 – c. 206 BCE):
    • Chrysippus was a prolific philosopher and the third head of the Stoic school, following Cleanthes. He made substantial contributions to Stoic logic, physics, and ethics, shaping many aspects of Stoic doctrine. Chrysippus developed propositional logic and formalized Stoic ethics, emphasizing the importance of virtue as the sole good and the path to eudaimonia. His writings significantly influenced later Stoic thinkers.
  1. Seneca the Younger (c. 4 BCE – 65 CE):
    • Seneca was a Roman statesman, playwright, and Stoic philosopher. He served as an advisor to Emperor Nero but fell out of favor and was eventually ordered to commit suicide. Seneca’s philosophical writings, including essays and letters to his friend Lucilius, are among the most influential works of Stoic literature. His writings explore themes such as the discipline of desire, the importance of virtue, and the acceptance of fate.
  2. Epictetus (c. 50 – c. 135 CE):
    • Epictetus was a Stoic philosopher born as a slave in Hierapolis (present-day Turkey). After gaining his freedom, he studied Stoic philosophy under Musonius Rufus and later established his own school in Nicopolis. Epictetus’s teachings were recorded by his student Arrian in the “Discourses” and the “Enchiridion.” His philosophy emphasized the dichotomy of control, resilience in the face of adversity, and the cultivation of inner peace through acceptance of the natural order.
  3. Marcus Aurelius (121 – 180 CE):
    • Marcus Aurelius was a Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, known for his “Meditations,” a collection of personal reflections and philosophical musings. Written during his military campaigns, the “Meditations” offer practical insights into Stoic ethics and the pursuit of virtue between the challenges of leadership and public life. Marcus Aurelius’s writings continue to inspire readers with their timeless wisdom and practical guidance.

The Stoic idea of the Dichotomy of control is a fundamental concept in Stoic philosophy that revolves around distinguishing between things that are within our control and things that are outside our control. This concept is essential for cultivating inner peace, resilience, and a sense of personal freedom. Here’s a detailed explanation:

  1. Internal Control (Things Within Our Control):
    • According to Stoicism, the only things truly within our control are our thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, desires, choices, and actions. These are aspects of ourselves that we can influence directly through our willpower and rationality. Stoics refer to these as “prohairetikon,” which means the faculty of choice.
    • By focusing our attention and efforts on what is within our control, Stoics believe that we can cultivate inner tranquility, integrity, and virtue. We have the power to shape our character, respond to challenges with resilience and creativity, and live in accordance with our values and principles.
  2. External Control (Things Outside Our Control):
    • Conversely, Stoics maintained that external events, circumstances, outcomes, and the actions of others are beyond our control. These are often referred to as “aprohairetikon,” meaning the non-possibility of choice.
    • Examples of external factors include natural disasters, other people’s opinions, societal norms, the weather, and unexpected events. No matter how much we may wish to influence or change these external factors, Stoicism asserts that doing so is ultimately futile and leads to frustration, anxiety, and suffering.
  3. Acceptance and Equanimity:
    • The dichotomy of control teaches us to accept the natural order of the universe and to approach external events with equanimity. Instead of resisting or becoming upset by things outside our control, Stoics advocate for embracing them with serenity and acceptance.
    • This acceptance does not imply passivity or indifference; rather, it involves recognizing the limits of our power and focusing our energy on what we can change—the internal aspects of ourselves.
  4. Freedom and Resilience:
    • By embracing the dichotomy of control, a difference between two completely opposite ideas or things, Stoics attained a sense of inner freedom and resilience. They were not dependent on external circumstances for their well-being or happiness. Instead, they found strength and contentment by cultivating virtues such as courage, wisdom, justice, and temperance within themselves.
    • Stoics viewed challenges and adversities as opportunities for growth and character development. By accepting the inevitability of external events and focusing on their response to them, Stoics were better equipped to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and dignity.

The Stoic dichotomy of control teaches us to focus our attention and efforts on what is within our control—our thoughts, choices, and actions—while accepting external events with equanimity and resilience. This mindset fosters inner peace, personal freedom, and a sense of fulfillment regardless of external circumstances.

Let’s delve deeper into the Stoic dichotomy of control with some examples to illustrate the concept:

  1. Internal Control (Things Within Our Control):
    • Example 1: Your Reaction to Criticism
      • Within your control: How you choose to react to criticism.
      • Example: Your colleague criticizes your work in front of the team. Instead of becoming defensive or angry, you choose to remain calm and composed. You reflect on the feedback and use it as an opportunity for self-improvement.
    • Example 2: Setting Personal Goals
      • Within your control: Setting personal goals and priorities.
      • Example: You decide to prioritize your health and well-being by committing to regular exercise and healthy eating habits. Regardless of external pressures or circumstances, you have the power to make choices that align with your values and goals.
  2. External Control (Things Outside Our Control):
    • Example 1: Traffic Congestion
      • Outside your control: Traffic congestion on your daily commute.
      • Example: You encounter heavy traffic on your way to work, causing you to be late. While you may feel frustrated by the delay, you recognize that traffic conditions are beyond your control. Instead of becoming stressed or agitated, you accept the situation and focus on making the best of the circumstances.
    • Example 2: Weather Conditions
      • Outside your control: Unpredictable weather conditions.
      • Example: You plan a cookout with friends, but it starts raining unexpectedly. Although you may feel disappointed by the change of plans, you understand that the weather is beyond your control. Rather than dwelling on the situation, you adapt by suggesting indoor activities or rescheduling the cookout for another day.
  3. Acceptance and Equanimity:
    • Example 1: Job Loss
      • External event: Losing your job due to company downsizing.
      • Example: Despite putting in your best effort at work, you receive notice of your job termination. While the news may initially be distressing, you choose to accept the reality of the situation. Instead of dwelling on feelings of anger or resentment, you focus on exploring new opportunities and adapting to the change with resilience.
    • Example 2: Relationship Breakup
      • External event: Experiencing a breakup in a relationship.
      • Example: Your partner decides to end the relationship, leaving you feeling heartbroken and disappointed. While it’s natural to experience emotions of sadness and grief, you recognize that you cannot control your partner’s actions or feelings. Instead of trying to change the situation, you accept the breakup and focus on healing and self-care.
  4. Freedom and Resilience:
    • Example 1: Health condition
      • Internal response: Managing anxiety because of health challenges.
      • Example: The person can view their health condition as an opportunity for personal growth and resilience. Stoic philosophy teaches that adversity can be a catalyst for inner strength and character development. Despite the physical challenges, we can cultivate resilience by facing our struggles with courage, perseverance, and a sense of purpose.
    • Example 2: Unfavorable situation
      • External event: Being stuck in a job
      • Example: The person can practice acceptance of their job situation, recognizing that while they may not have control over external factors such as company policies or economic conditions, they do have control over their own thoughts, attitudes, and actions. By accepting their circumstances with equanimity, they can reduce their emotional resistance and create space for rational decision-making and look for new opportunities.

These examples demonstrate how the Stoic dichotomy of control can be applied in various aspects of life, especially in these modern times where freedom is hanging by a thread. By focusing on what is within our control and accepting what is not, we can cultivate inner peace and a sense of personal freedom, regardless of external circumstances.

What do you think about the Stoics and their Idea of the Dichotomy of Control?

Let us know in the comments below and share the post!!!

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The Stoics and their Idea of the Dichotomy of Control

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-man-statue-stoicism-8298162

https://pixabay.com/photos/bad-weather-thunderstorm-liguria-2773034

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-statue-sculpture-8474179

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https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-statue-sculpture-8474178

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/stoic-stoicism-man-statue-art-8357266

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-stoic-stoicism-statue-8414101

https://pixabay.com/photos/marcus-aurelius-roman-emperor-2721715

https://pixabay.com/photos/rome-campidoglio-italy-architecture-2635491

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-marcus-aurelius-statue-8390622

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12 Stoic quotes for Pragmatic Living

12 Stoic quotes for Pragmatic Living

Stoicism offers a wealth of wisdom through its philosophical teachings. Here are 12 of the best Stoic quotes:

  1. “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” – Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius is highlighting the profound connection between our mental outlook and our experiences of happiness. If we cultivate positive, constructive, and empowering thoughts, we’re more likely to experience greater happiness in our lives. Conversely, if our thoughts are predominantly negative, destructive, or pessimistic, our overall happiness is likely to be diminished. Therefore, by paying attention to and improving the quality of our thoughts, we can enhance our well-being and happiness.

  1. “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” – Epictetus

Epictetus is advocating for a shift in perspective regarding wealth. Instead of measuring wealth solely by the abundance of possessions or material wealth, true wealth is found in simplicity and contentment. When one cultivates a mindset of having few desires and being satisfied with what one already has, they can achieve a sense of inner wealth and fulfillment that transcends material possessions. This aligns with Stoic principles, which emphasize virtue, inner tranquility, and living in harmony with nature rather than being driven by external desires or circumstances.

  1. “It is not events that disturb people, it is their judgements concerning them.” – Epictetus

Epictetus is highlighting the power of perception and interpretation in shaping our emotional responses to events. According to Stoic philosophy, external events are indifferent—they are neither inherently good nor bad. Instead, it is our reactions, interpretations, and judgments about these events that determine how we feel about them.

By recognizing that our judgments are within our control, Stoicism teaches that we can choose to adopt more rational, objective, and constructive perspectives toward the events in our lives. Rather than being disturbed by external circumstances beyond our control, we can cultivate resilience, inner peace, and emotional stability by reframing our judgments and focusing on what is within our control—our thoughts, attitudes, and responses. This quote underscores the importance of practicing mindfulness and cultivating a wise and rational approach to life’s challenges.

  1. “The only way to happiness is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.” – Epictetus

Epictetus is advocating for a mindset shift: instead of expending energy and causing distress by worrying about things we cannot control, such as external events or other people’s behaviors, we should focus our efforts on what is within our control—our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.

By letting go of worries about things beyond our control and redirecting our attention to what we can influence, we can attain a greater sense of inner peace, contentment, and happiness. This aligns with the Stoic idea of practicing acceptance of external events while focusing on cultivating virtue, wisdom, and inner tranquility.

  1. “The first step in becoming a philosopher is to be able to bear the sight of the world.” – Seneca

Seneca is emphasizing the importance of cultivating a certain kind of mental resilience. To “bear the sight of the world” implies being able to confront the realities of life without being overwhelmed or disheartened by its challenges, injustices, and uncertainties.

By learning to accept the world as it is, we can lay the groundwork for deeper philosophical inquiry, reflection, and ultimately, the pursuit of wisdom, virtue and freedom. This quote underscores the notion that some approaches to philosophy are not merely an intellectual exercise but also a practice rooted in cultivating a certain mindset and attitude towards life.

  1. “The wise man will live as long as he must, not as long as he can.” – Seneca

Seneca is advocating for an acceptance of mortality and a recognition of the limits of human life. The wise person does not fear death or seek to prolong life unnaturally but rather lives in accordance with virtue and wisdom for as long as they are meant to live. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize living in harmony with nature, accepting the inevitability of death, and focusing on living a life of virtue and meaning rather than merely seeking to extend one’s lifespan.

This quote encourages individuals to prioritize the quality of their lives over the quantity, focusing on living virtuously and meaningfully rather than obsessing over extending their lifespan through any means possible.

Although I DO NOT personally and fully agree with this quote, it may help you if you do.

  1. “No person has the power to have everything they want, but it is in their power not to want what they don’t have, and to cheerfully put to good use what they do have.” – Seneca

Seneca emphasizes the importance of making the most of what one does have. Rather than lamenting what is lacking, individuals can focus on utilizing their existing resources, talents, and opportunities in a positive and constructive manner. This involves approaching life’s challenges with resilience, optimism, and a willingness to make the best of any situation.

By recognizing and appreciating what they already have, individuals can find fulfillment and satisfaction in the present moment, rather than constantly striving for more or being consumed by dissatisfaction. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize acceptance of what is beyond one’s control and a focus on cultivating virtue, resilience, and inner tranquility.

  1. “The whole future lies in uncertainty: live immediately.” – Seneca

Despite the uncertainty of the future, Seneca encourages living fully in the present moment. Rather than being consumed by worry or anxiety about what might happen in the future, he suggests to live life to its fullest right now.

Seneca is advocating for a mindset of embracing the present moment and making the most of the time we have. Rather than being preoccupied with concerns about what the future may hold, Seneca urges us to focus on taking action and finding meaning in the present.

This mindset allows for greater resilience, inner peace, and fulfillment, regardless of the uncertainties that lie ahead.

  1. “If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.” – Seneca

Seneca is emphasizing the importance of setting goals, defining objectives, and having a sense of purpose in life. Without clarity about where one is headed, external circumstances or opportunities become irrelevant. This quote underscores the idea that progress and fulfillment require intentional action and direction, rather than simply waiting for favorable circumstances to arise.

By knowing one’s destination and purpose, individuals can align their efforts, make informed decisions, and navigate through life’s challenges with greater clarity.

  1. “Don’t seek for everything to happen as you wish it would, but rather wish that everything happens as it actually will—then your life will flow well.” – Epictetus

By adopting an attitude of acceptance and aligning one’s wishes with the natural course of events, Epictetus suggests that individuals can experience greater harmony, peace, and well-being in their lives. Rather than resisting or fighting against the inevitable changes and challenges of life, one can learn to navigate them with grace and resilience.

Epictetus is advocating for a mindset shift—from attachment to specific outcomes to acceptance of whatever arises. By relinquishing the desire for control and embracing the inherent unpredictability of life, individuals can find greater inner peace and contentment. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize the importance of focusing on what is within one’s control—namely, one’s thoughts, attitudes, and actions—while accepting what is beyond their control.

  1. “Wealth consists more in use than in possession.” – Seneca

Seneca is highlighting the importance of practical value over mere ownership. Possessing wealth in terms of material possessions is not inherently valuable unless those possessions are put to meaningful use. This aligns with Stoic principles that emphasize virtue, wisdom, and the pursuit of the good life over the accumulation of external wealth or status.

Seneca’s quote encourages individuals to consider how they utilize their resources—whether material or otherwise—and how those resources contribute to their well-being. It suggests that true wealth lies not just in hoarding possessions but in using them wisely and virtuously to enrich one’s life and the lives of others.

  1. “He suffers more than necessary, who suffers before it is necessary.” – Seneca

Seneca is advising against allowing anticipation, worry, or anxiety about future events to cause unnecessary suffering in the present moment. By focusing on what is within one’s control—namely, one’s thoughts, attitudes, and responses—individuals can minimize unnecessary suffering and cultivate greater resilience and inner peace.

This quote underscores the Stoic emphasis on living in the present moment, accepting what is beyond one’s control, and approaching life’s challenges with rationality. By refraining from suffering prematurely, individuals can conserve their emotional energy and better cope with the inevitable hardships of life when they arise.

These 12 quotes encapsulate some of the core teachings of Stoicism, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and the power of perspective in leading a virtuous and fulfilling life.

What do you think about these 12 Stoic quotes? Let us know in the comment section below and share the post!!!

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12 Stoic quotes for Pragmatic Living

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/resilience-victory-force-1697546/

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12 Best Stoic quotes by Marcus Aurelius – Stoicism for Modern Times

12 Best Stoic quotes by Marcus Aurelius - Stoicism for Modern Times

Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, left behind a wealth of wisdom in his “Meditations,” a series of personal reflections and philosophical musings. Here are some of his best quotes:

1. “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”

This quote emphasizes the importance of action and personal virtue over mere theoretical debate. Marcus Aurelius suggests that rather than debating abstract concepts of goodness, individuals should focus on embodying virtuous qualities in their actions and behaviors.

2.“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

This quote highlights the Stoic idea of the dichotomy of control. Marcus Aurelius reminds us that while external events may be beyond our control, we have the power to control our thoughts, attitudes, and responses to these events. By recognizing this, we can find inner strength and resilience.

3. “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”

Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the significance of our thoughts in shaping our happiness and well-being. He suggests that cultivating positive and constructive thoughts leads to a happier life, while negative or harmful thoughts can detract from our overall happiness.

4. “When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive — to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.”

This quote encourages gratitude and mindfulness. Marcus Aurelius urges us to appreciate the simple yet profound joys of existence, such as the ability to breathe, think, experience joy, and love others.

5. “Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking.”

Here, Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the internal nature of happiness. He suggests that true happiness comes from within and is not dependent on external circumstances or possessions. Cultivating a positive and virtuous mindset is key to leading a happy life.

6. “The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.”

This quote advocates for responding to wrongdoing with integrity and virtue rather than seeking revenge. Marcus Aurelius suggests that the most effective way to respond to harm or injustice is to rise above it and embody qualities that contrast with the negative actions of others.

7. “The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.”

Marcus Aurelius metaphorically portrays the influence of our thoughts on our character and inner self. He suggests that our thoughts shape our soul and moral character, highlighting the importance of cultivating virtuous and noble thoughts.

8. “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”

This quote reflects the Stoic idea of transforming obstacles into opportunities. Marcus Aurelius teaches that challenges and obstacles are not to be avoided but embraced as opportunities for growth and progress. Adversity can serve as a catalyst for action and personal development.

9. “Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart.”

Marcus Aurelius encourages acceptance of fate and embracing the people and circumstances that come into our lives. He advises approaching life with wholehearted acceptance and love, even in the face of adversity or hardship.

10. “Our life is what our thoughts make it.”

This quote reinforces the Stoic belief in the power of thought to shape our experiences and perceptions of life. Marcus Aurelius suggests that our thoughts ultimately determine the quality and meaning of our lives, highlighting the importance of cultivating positive and virtuous thoughts.

11. “Begin each day by telling yourself: Today I shall be meeting with interference, ingratitude, insolence, disloyalty, ill-will, and selfishness.”

This quote emphasizes the Stoic practice of negative visualization and mental preparedness. Marcus Aurelius advises acknowledging the potential challenges and difficulties that may arise each day, allowing us to approach them with resilience and equanimity.

12. “If it is not right, do not do it. If it is not true, do not say it.”

This quote underscores the importance of integrity and ethical conduct. Marcus Aurelius advises acting in accordance with what is morally right and speaking truthfully. He emphasizes the importance of aligning our actions and words with our principles and values.

These quotes reflect Marcus Aurelius’s Stoic philosophy, emphasizing principles such as acceptance of fate, the power of thought, and the importance of virtue in leading a meaningful and fulfilling life.

And you, what do you think about these quotes and Stoic philosophy by Marcus Aurelius?

Let us know in the comments below and share the post!!!

Video version here:

12 Best Stoic quotes by Marcus Aurelius – Stoicism for Modern Times

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-statue-sculpture-8474179/

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-statue-sculpture-8459691/

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https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-marcus-aurelius-statue-8390622/

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Stoic teachings for Modern Times

Stoicism for Modern Times

Stoicism was a school of philosophy that originated in ancient Greece around the 3rd century BCE, but it flourished predominantly in ancient Rome. The philosophy was founded by Zeno of Citium around 300 BCE. Stoicism taught a system of ethics that emphasized personal virtue, reason, and self-control.

It offered practical guidance for navigating the challenges of daily life, political upheavals, and personal struggles. Its teachings continue to resonate today, offering timeless wisdom on how to live a meaningful and resilient life amidst adversity.

  1. Virtue as the Highest Good: Stoicism teaches that the highest good, or the ultimate goal of life, is eudaimonia, which is often translated as “happiness,” “flourishing,” or “fulfillment.” Unlike hedonistic philosophies that equate happiness with pleasure, Stoicism emphasizes virtue as the key to eudaimonia. Virtue, according to Stoicism, consists of qualities such as wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. Living a virtuous life leads to inner tranquility and fulfillment, regardless of external circumstances.
  2. Acceptance of Nature, Fate and Impermanence (The Dichotomy of Control): Central to Stoic philosophy is the idea of living in accordance with nature. This involves accepting the natural order of the universe and recognizing the interconnectedness of all things. Stoics believed in a deterministic worldview, where events are governed by fate or providence. Central to Stoic philosophy is the idea of distinguishing between things that are within our control (internal) and things that are outside our control (external). While individuals have control over their own thoughts, actions, and attitudes (the things within their “sphere of control”), they are encouraged to accept external events beyond their control (the things outside their “sphere of control”) with equanimity. Stoicism teaches acceptance of fate and the impermanence of all things. Stoics recognize that life is inherently unpredictable and that external events are subject to change. Rather than resisting or lamenting these changes, Stoics advocate for embracing them and adapting to circumstances with resilience and acceptance. By recognizing and accepting the limits of our control, Stoics aim to cultivate inner tranquility and freedom from anxiety.
  3. Practical Wisdom and Rationality: Stoicism places a strong emphasis on reason and practical wisdom or phronesis as guides to living a virtuous life. Stoics advocate for the cultivation of rationality, critical thinking, and logical analysis in decision-making and problem-solving. By exercising reason, individuals can better understand the world around them, manage their emotions, and make ethical choices aligned with virtue.
  1. Desire and Aversion (Indifference to External Goods): Stoicism teaches indifference to external goods such as wealth, fame, and social status. While these things may be preferred or dispreferred, they are considered indifferent in the sense that they do not inherently contribute to eudaimonia. Instead, Stoics focus on developing inner virtues and character traits, which are within their control and lead to lasting fulfillment. Stoicism teaches the discipline of desire and aversion, which involves moderating one’s desires and attachments to external things. By practicing detachment from material possessions and transient pleasures, individuals can cultivate inner tranquillity and freedom from the turmoil of excessive desire.
  2. Self-Discipline and Endurance: Stoicism advocates for the practice of self-discipline, resilience and endurance in the face of adversity. Stoics believed that challenges and hardships are opportunities for growth and character development. By willingly enduring hardships and embracing discomfort, individuals can strengthen their resolve, cultivate resilience, and become more virtuous.
  3. Social and Cosmopolitan Outlook: Stoicism encourages a cosmopolitan outlook, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of benevolence, justice, and compassion towards others. Stoics believed in living in harmony with fellow human beings, treating others with kindness and fairness, and contributing to the well-being of society.


These teachings and practices of Stoicism offer a comprehensive framework for leading a life of virtue, resilience, and inner peace, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty. Stoicism provides valuable guidance for navigating life’s challenges with rational wisdom.

It offers a practical mindset for living a meaningful existence grounded in reason, self-awareness, rationality, self-discipline, and acceptance of the natural order of the universe. Its teachings continue to inspire people seeking wisdom, resilience, and inner peace in today’s world.

And you, what do you think about these Stoic teachings for Modern Times? Let us know in the comments below and share the post!!!

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Stoic Teachings for Modern Times

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https://pixabay.com/photos/seneca-philosopher-statue-8026630/

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What is Esoteric Pragmatism? (New Counter Theory)

Esotericism is about secret knowledge for a small group of people.

Esotericism also describes mystical, practical or occult points of view.

Esotericism studies Gnosticism, Yoga, Alchemy, Magic, Spiritualism, Hypnosis, Astrology, Meditation, Mysticism, and Occultism.

The concept of the “esoteric” originated in antiquity with the coining of the Ancient Greek adjective esôterikós which means (“belonging to an inner circle”).

Sometimes this is referred to as “inner traditions” concerned with a “UNIVERSAL and spiritual dimension of reality, as opposed to external OR (‘exoteric’) religious institutions and dogmatic systems of established religions.”

There are many variants of a worldwide Esotericism at the heart of all world religions and cultures, reflecting a hidden esoteric reality.

This use is closest to the original meaning of the word in late antiquity, where it applied to secret spiritual teachings that were reserved for a specific elite and hidden from the masses.

However I personally think Western or Eastern in this case does not mean much, since in my opinion is better to refer to a worldwide pool of knowledge.

This also relates in my opinion to the belief of a once Pangea or united earth, GEA meaning EARTH, the word Geography comes from there for example.

Therefore, PANGEA meaning the landmasses of Earth that were once all connected and not divided as it is officially established nowadays, so an all encompassing and land-wide general and accepted knowledge is likely probable.

There are obviously many theories about that so I always encourage you to do your own research and take responsibility for what you believe somehow.

I am personally more inclined towards a Syncretic world view, in other words, take the best from whatever source you believe makes sense and discard what doesn’t.

Still, TRUTH would be subjective so I personally take everything with a grain of salt and always let room for being wrong and keep searching.

I came up with the term ESOTERIC PRAGMATISM OR PRAGMATIC ESOTERICISM, whatever may sound better or more appealing to you.

In my view, all secret, unusual or less known teachings make sense, on this plane of existence, if applied to our daily life, whatever it may be.

I don’t know of anyone else who invented this term so far, but if you do, please let me know and provide evidence.

So, I suggest and promote a pragmatic approach to Esotericism or an Esoteric approach to Pragmatism, which can be used often interchangeably.

In simple words, as I said before, occult, which means hidden, OR lesser known teachings, should provide some sorts of applicable knowledge and practical solutions to everyday life.

According to the dictionary, Pragmatism means:

“an approach that assesses the truth of meaning of theories or beliefs in terms of the success of their practical application. “

Now, obviously this word already exists so I am not really inventing anything super new here, I’m just combining these 2 words.

The definition I just read implies that somehow the practical application of such theories should be successful, although it’s always debatable what success means for various people, so let’s say, if something helps you to live a better life, then why not use it.

Assuming that your intent is to live a holistic and freedom-focused life and not harm anyone. You should always be responsible for the use of your ideas in my opinion.

In a system that recently is apparently working on making people less accountable for what they do, I believe it’s important to restore, if ever was present, a way of thinking that promotes personal responsibility.

It’s a given though that such a thing would never be 100% reality, since we are all somehow interconnected, and share responsibilities. We can just do the best we can and create a system in which we want to live. Obviously, the freer the system the better, in my opinion.

So how can Pragmatic Esotericism or Esoteric Pragmatism help?

First of all, promoting and spreading any hidden, occult, ancient or future knowledge THAT has proven itself to help people live better lives in general.

Believing time is cyclical and NOT linear, logic goes that past and future can share similar teachings and hold valid theories and solutions for modern life.

So it goes without saying that in a system less than perfect, certain theories and teachings have been hidden from the masses, hence the term Esoteric, so as not to be ridiculed or left in the wrong hands.

Maybe now is the time to bring any type of occult knowledge to light and let every person judge by themselves without a middle man, often in the form of an always present guru or spiritual teacher AS a knowledge keeper, unless such a messenger is really enlightened or genuine, which is often not the case.

So I encourage you to dig deeper and let me know what you think in the comments below. Feel free to reach out to us if you have relevant info and thank you.

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