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.
What is happiness for the Stoics?
Stoicism holds that the key to a good, happy life is the cultivation of an excellent mental state , which the Stoics identified with virtue and being rational. The ideal life is one that is in harmony with Nature, of which we are all part, and an attitude of calm indifference towards external events.
Do Stoics have emotions?
Stoics do have emotions , but only for the things in this world that really matter. They are the most real people alive. ... Even within practitioners of the stoic philosophy, there is no agreed definition. There are however, some common characteristics in what they believe.
Is it good to be a stoic?
From a practical and pragmatic perspective, it seems Stoicism is good in times of extreme uncertainty and stress (like currently in today’s COVID world). Also good in times of war. To be more Epicurean seems wiser during times of uber-peace and stability, assuming you have some sort of walled garden to retreat into.
How does Stoicism determine happiness?
Stoicism holds that the key to a good, happy life is the cultivation of an excellent mental state , which the Stoics identified with virtue and being rational. The ideal life is one that is in harmony with Nature, of which we are all part, and an attitude of calm indifference towards external events.
Can a stoic cry?
“ Neither philosophy nor empire ,” Antoninus said, “takes away natural feeling.” ... No matter how much philosophy you’ve read. No matter how much older you’ve gotten or how important your position or how many eyes are on you. It’s OK to cry.
Do Stoics feel sad?
Stoics do have a distinct approach to the emotional life . ... The same goes for emotional storms. Stoics believe we can still act well despite feeling a “bad emotion.” If you’re extremely rude to your co-workers and, when asked why, you answered, “it’s humid,” people would look at you funny.
Can Stoics fall in love?
As a lover of virtue, the Stoic recognizes virtue in the other. ... He is ready to love again, but this time he will not fall in love . And if he falls, as we humans are inclined to do, he will know how to pick himself up again.
How do Stoics view death?
The Stoics viewed death as natural, a return to Nature . It is the value-judgments we place on death which makes it as terrible as it is. This is the existential dilemma we all will face at one point or another in our lives. It often appears after the passing of a loved one or someone close.
What are the 4 virtues of stoicism?
The Stoics elaborated a detailed taxonomy of virtue, dividing virtue into four main types: wisdom, justice, courage, and moderation .
At what should one aim as a stoic?
The ultimate goal of Stoicism is to develop the mind to such an extent that the practitioner would reach a state of being called eudaimonia .
What is a stoic person like?
Being stoic is being calm and almost without any emotion . When you’re stoic, you don’t show what you’re feeling and you also accept whatever is happening. The noun stoic is a person who’s not very emotional. ... Stoic people calmly go with the flow and don’t appear to be shook up by much.
Why is Stoicism so popular?
Another large appeal of Stoic philosophy today is that its techniques have a rational foundation and don’t require a belief in supernatural forces. For this reason, modern Stoicism is very popular with secular humanists and atheists , but it’s equally popular with religious people and the spiritual but not religious.
Is Batman stoic?
Another example of Batman’s dedication to Stoic principles is his approach to preparing for the worst possible scenario, or premeditatio malorum (the premeditation of evils). It’s a Stoic exercise that’s meant to bring acceptance for setbacks and to prepare for any fate.
What are the flaws of Stoicism?
The Stoics divide emotions into three categories: pre-emotions, unhealthy emotions, and healthy emotions. Pre-emotions (e.g., blushing, beginning of anger) are inevitable even for the sage. Unhealthy emotions (full fledged anger, hatred, fear) interfere with reason and need to be negotiated. Never act on their basis .
What does Stoicism say about crying?
Stoicism tells me that I should be guided by my values — not by the stories I tell myself about what I’m ‘supposed’ to be doing. Saying, “ I shouldn’t cry because I need to be stoic ” is basically saying that crying is bad because other people out there say that crying is bad, based on their own value system.
