Written by guest author, ChatGPT
The Stoic philosophy, which originated in ancient Greece and was further developed in ancient Rome, centers around the cultivation of virtue and wisdom as the path to true happiness. When Stoics refer to “being good,” they are usually speaking about living virtuously and in accordance with reason. Here are some key points to understand about the Stoic concept of “being good”:
- Virtue is the Only Good: For Stoics, external circumstances (like wealth, reputation, health, etc.) are not intrinsically good or bad. Instead, they are indifferent. What matters is how one relates to and uses these external things. Only virtue (moral excellence) is truly good, and vice (moral corruption) is truly bad.
- Four Cardinal Virtues: The Stoics identified four primary virtues, derived from the rational part of the soul:
- Wisdom (Sophia): Sound judgment, the ability to determine what is truly good or bad.
- Courage (Andreia): Bravery in facing dangers, but also moral courage in facing daily challenges.
- Justice (Dikaiosyne): Treating others fairly and doing one’s duty to society.
- Temperance (Sophrosyne): Moderation and self-control, particularly over one’s desires and impulses.
- Living According to Nature: Stoics believe that by understanding the nature of the universe and our place within it, we can live in harmony with it. “Living according to nature” means recognizing and accepting the rational and ordered structure of the world, and our role as rational beings within it. It means acting in accordance with reason and virtue.
- Internal Over External: Being good in a Stoic sense often means focusing on what is within our control (our beliefs, judgments, decisions) and accepting what is outside of our control (external events, other people’s opinions). By aligning one’s will with what is natural and rational, one achieves a state of tranquility (ataraxia) and moral clarity.
- Continuous Practice: Stoicism is not just a theoretical philosophy but a practical guide for living. Being good involves continuous effort, self-examination, and practice in making virtuous decisions. Stoics often used exercises, reflections, and meditations to cultivate their character.
- Universal Brotherhood: Stoicism emphasizes the interconnectedness of all people. We are all rational beings, and as such, we share a kinship. “Being good” also means recognizing our duties to others and treating them justly and with compassion.
In essence, “being good” in Stoicism is about cultivating an inner disposition of virtue, making rational and moral choices, and living in harmony with the natural order of the universe.
Bodhi Day 