April 21
Monday, April 21, 2025Plenary
Stoic Freedom
In this class we continue our study of Roman Stoicism, beginning with the distinction the Stoics drew between their approach to the good life and the approach of their main rival philosophical school, Epicureanism. We'll then consider the ideal of the Stoic Sage in relation to the Stoic "Progressor," the Stoics' understanding of healthy and unhealthy emotions, and the influence of Stoicism in the present day in twelve-step programs for addiction and cognitive behavioral therapy. At the end of class we'll examine some challenges to Stoicism as well as the rise of the Modern Stoicism movement.
Goals
Goals
- Understand how the Stoics looked to distinguish their views in ethics from Epicureanism
- Distinguish between the Stoic Sage and the Stoic “Progressor”
- Understand the Stoics’ views on emotions
- Become familiar with the influence of the Stoics in modern times and the revival of their views in the Modern Stoicism movement
Before Class
- A conversation with Nancy Sherman for Stoicon 2021 covering various issues from her recent book, Stoic Wisdom, including the Stoics’ views on emotions and other misreadings of their understanding of the good life.
- As you read Epictetus for today’s class, consider how his views connect with the core principles of Stoicism discussed in last week’s lectures.
- Live Like a Stoic Week starts today!
After Class
Further Resources
Further Resources
- “If You’re Reading Stoicism for Life Hacks, You’re Missing the Point” – op-ed piece for the NYT on what Modern Stoics need to know about Ancient Stoicism (Nancy Sherman)
- “Care For Ourselves, Others, And Our World – Can Stoicism Help Us Hold These Together?” – short essay on the relation for the Stoics between self-care, care for others, and care for the world and our environment (Christopher Gill)
- Website for Modern Stoicism