What is Stoicism?

«Stoicism is not just a concept but a way of life.»

Stoicism, established by Zeno of Citium in 301 BCE, is a philosophy that emphasizes excellence, reason, and self-control. It guides individuals to live with purpose and equanimity, focusing on personal ethics and rational decision-making. Central to its teachings are the excellences of wisdom, courage, justice, moderation, and self-discipline, aiming for a life of flourishing (Eudaimonia). Stoicism also focuses on mindfulness and living in the present (Prosochē), helping followers find inner peace and resilience against life’s challenges. Its timeless principles continue to inspire and guide people towards ethical living and mental strength.

Introduction

Stoicism, established by Zeno of Citium in 301 BCE, is a philosophy that emphasizes excellence, reason, and self-control.

Introduction

Prosochē

The Stoic practice of “Prosochē” is an introspection on mindful vigilance, leading to inner tranquility and fulfillment.

Prosochē

Eupatheia

Eupatheia refers to a state of good feelings that arise from making correct judgments and actions.

Eupatheia

Eudaimonia

In Stoicism, eudaimonia represents the pinnacle of human existence, achieved through Prosochē and living in harmony with nature’s order.

Eudaimonia

Human Excellence

Stoicism highlights four cardinal excellences—wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice—as pillars of a purposeful life.

Human Excellence

Stoicism and Neoplatonism

Stoicism and Neoplatonism share many similarities, including the pursuit of inner tranquility and a belief in a hierarchical universe governed by rationality.

Stoicism and Neoplatonism

Physical Health

Stoicism promotes excellence by aligning with nature and the body, advocating for a good diet, physical activity and mindful eating.

Physical Health

Reason & Logic

Stoicism advocates for a life guided by reason, aligning our actions with the natural order of the universe to achieve a state of contentment and excellence in our existence.

Reason & Logic

Ethics

Stoicism firmly entrenched ethics, or moral philosophy, as one of its foundational pillars. Central to this tenet was the idea that the zenith of human achievement or the highest form of good, stems …

Ethics

Nature

The Stoics deeply valued nature and the natural world, viewing it as a fundamental aspect of their philosophy. They believed that living in accordance with nature was essential for achieving a life o…

Nature

Religion

The Stoics were distinct among many ancient cultures for rejecting the belief in personal gods or super-rational deities worshipped in most cultures worldwide.

Religion

Stoic Quotes

"Don't explain your philosophy. Embody it."

Epictetus

"The Stoic is recognized by his watchwords, not by his garb."

Seneca

"Philosophy does not promise to secure anything external for man, otherwise it would be admitting something that lies beyond its proper subject-matter. For as the material of the carpenter is wood, and that of statuary bronze, so the subject-matter of the art of living is each person's own life."

Epictetus

"Remember that philosophy is not just theoretical; rather, it is a way of life."

Marcus Aurelius

"Stoicism is not a set of rules to follow, but a mindset to embrace."

Seneca the Younger, On the Shortness of Life

"Stoicism is not about escaping reality, but about finding inner peace within it."

Epictetus, Enchiridion

"Man is not affected by events, but by the view he takes of them."

Epictetus, Enchiridion 5

The origin of the word

Stoicism, named after the Stoa Poikile or “Painted Porch” in Athens, is a philosophy that promotes wisdom, ethical excellence, and self-control.

It began with Zeno of Citium and his followers, who discussed ideas in this public space, emphasizing accessible wisdom and ethical living. The term reflects the philosophy’s roots in democratic ideals and its evolution into a comprehensive approach to life’s challenges, focusing on personal and moral improvement.

Stoic history

Key Principles

Stoicism emphasizes self-awareness and wisdom as foundations for inner peace.

It encourages reflection on one’s thoughts and emotions to achieve detachment from external turmoil and live in the present. Additionally, it teaches acceptance of change as a constant in life, promoting harmony with nature and inner tranquility.

About the stoic core

slice_fullHD_0000s_0003_DALL·E 2023-10-16 08.04.25 - Photography of a gathering of ancient stoics in the stoa. The setti

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Our Book: Moments in Excellence

This book is not a dry theory, but a vivid guide that helps you master the art of stoic living. Read it and become your best self.

How can you live a happy and fulfilled life? By following the philosophy of Stoicism, which teaches you how to focus on what is in your power and detach from what is not in your power. In this book, you will learn how to practice the stoic wisdom in your daily life, to become more calm, content and resilient.

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