The Ideal Citizen
Many people may question the importance of Stoicism. Yet, the impact of this ancient philosophy has been profound and impactful throughout history. As the Britannica encyclopedia eloquently put it: “In urging participation in human affairs, Stoics have always believed that the goal of all inquiry is to provide a mode of conduct characterized by tranquility of the mind and certainty of moral worth.” In other words, be meaningful, yet peaceful in your actions towards yourself and towards wider society.
The best way to become an ideal citizen is to improve oneself, both morally and intellectually. A citizen who is both moral and intellectual has more to offer society than someone who lacks either or both of those two qualities. Great citizens have a higher capacity to then influence their civilizations and culture to become more moral and intellectual.
Stoicism’s Influence on Intellectual Civilization
The significance of Stoicism lies mainly in its influence over Islamic and Western thought. Stoic philosophers and their teachings played a very important role in the rise of both the Islamic Golden (Intellectual) Age and the Western Renaissance and Enlightenment periods. The effect Stoicism had on two of history’s greatest civilizations is notable, as this philosophy made reason the hallmark of human achievement and existence.
But why attribute so much power to reason? As the Britannica further explains, “reason alone could reveal the constancy of cosmic order and the originative source of unyielding value”. In other words, reason and logic are the best tools to use when trying to understand the existence and source of the universe. It is through embracing reason that Stoics are able to analyze both the creationist and evolutionary theories of creation. Only through study, thinking and the embrace of logic are humans able to create new things, understand their discoveries and build better futures for themselves, for their children and for the wider society.
However, logic requires a companion and that companion is an ethical compass or a moral code of laws. A logical society that lacks a code of ethics is more dangerous than an ignorant society deprived of morals, for a logical and unethical society is the most apathetic of all societies. A man or woman who has the intention of committing harm and has the intellectual capabilities to execute his or her plans is the most uncivilized and barbaric of any type of human being.
Do You Feel Lost in Life?
Many people may feel lost and confused at some point in their lives, and do not know what to do with themselves. Stoicism may not provide all the answers; however, it can provide you with the building blocks for a more fulfilling life. Use reason to ask yourself what are my strengths and what are my weaknesses? What do I enjoy doing and what do I not enjoy doing? Most importantly, do it for yourself and not for anyone else. That is why Stoicism is so influential: it teaches us to value our own moral and intellectual worth, and to cast aside the irrelevant opinions of others.
Only when we realize that human progress is derived from self-progress will we be able to truly rise from our current despairs and reach new heights of human progress. Help others by first helping yourself. Rely on yourself before you rely on others. To be needed is far more satisfying than to need.
On Virtue
Virtue is the great treasure of all philosophies and moral codes. In this section, we will focus on the meaning of virtue and what that looks like in the eyes of the Stoics. According to Stoic philosophy, virtue is an intrinsic element of the universe. In fact, Stoicism has a dichotomous belief, as it provides us with the philosophical tools to navigate both the bad and the good aspects of our existence.
A common Stoic saying is “to live according to nature”. In this sense, Stoicism is not only a philosophy of theory, but perhaps more importantly, also a philosophy of practice. The idea of living according to the principles of nature is so important, as some philosophies appear to be based in theory, but not actuality. What Stoics advocate is for humans to not exploit the natural cosmos and order of things, and to instead respect that nature. Let life develop freely and you shall be free as well.
In the heyday of the ancient Stoics, there were those who lived without virtue, beyond the confounds of the natural order and instead abused life’s material wealth for their own greed and power. Unfortunately, such people still exist in our modern world. Nevertheless, it is necessary for us to keep in mind that there are more good people in this world then there are bad. Unfortunately the bad seem to be in control since they are a minority. It is always easier for the minority to rule because it is easier for them to achieve unity, a common cause and agreement over issues, than it is for the majority groups.
The Four Cardinal Virtues
Now we will discuss the four cardinal virtues of Stoicism and why they are so important in understanding the history of our intellectual and emotional selves. The importance of these virtues lies in their meaning. The first cardinal virtue is Wisdom (Sophia), the second is Righteousness (Dikaiosune), the third is Fortitude (Andreia) and the fourth is Temperance (Sophrosune). In the Stoic’s minds, the ideal person would be wise, just, courageous and moderate. He or she would be able to analyze a situation, come up with a fair and impartial conclusion, be courageous in executing his or her responsibilities, and be self-disciplined enough to act in moderation so as not to pass an extreme judgment.
A human who is both moral and wise is a human who is capable of changing society for its betterment. According to Stoicism, every person has the ability to achieve greatness in their lives and is not determined by our wealth, status, or upbringing, as the potential for excellence starts within each person. It is up to ourselves to realize our purpose and to then pursue it. But remember: only pursue your life’s purpose if that is what you desire; never under any circumstances pursue something to please others, as that is not the Stoic way.
