In this article we will talk about cosmopolitanism in relation to the Stoics’ understanding of it, and we will see why this notion is important for our wellbeing.
Oneness with all means that every human being is connected with one another via our special bond. According to Stoic philosophers, this special bond is the mind. We are all social beings who use our minds to form social bonds. Such a view on others can be summarized by the notion of cosmopolitanism. Cosmopolitanism is the belief that all humans are, or should be, part of one community, and that we are all entitled to equal respect and consideration.
Before the empire of Alexander the Great, Greeks considered themselves to be superior to other nations. However, Stoic philosophers opposed this traditional distinction between Greeks and so-called barbarians. Instead, they applied the term “cosmopolitan” to themselves, meaning “citizen of the world”, thereby implying that their polis (city-state) belonged to the entire cosmos.
Stoic philosophers are important in this respect, because they were the first to bring down the walls that segregated human beings and claim that a superior nation or race doesn’t exist. We are all the same in the terms of our nature and origin. In other words, we all share the same part of the divine, which is universal logos itself. Stoics were the first consistent anti-racists or anti-nationalists of their time, and the legacy of this idea is still present today.
Oneness With All – A Global Community and Commitment
Cosmopolitanism began with two ideas in mind. The first one is focused on identity, while the other is responsibility. The thesis of identity claims that cosmopolitanism means to not value any culture above another. Furthermore, a cosmopolitan would believe that all good and beneficial values from different cultures are worth enjoying and sharing.
The thesis of responsibility includes our actions, which are fueled by our feelings and our commitment to others. Cosmopolitanism is not merely a theory consisting of empty words and ideals; it is not a conformist’s virtue-signaling playground. Cosmopolitanism requires action. Since we are all connected, we are responsible for each other too.
In Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, he provides a thesis on the validity of cosmopolitanism and concludes from the main premise that we are, by nature, communal and interconnected by a common reason.
“If the intellectual part is common to all men, so is reason, in respect of which we are rational beings: if this is so, common also is the reason that commands us what to do, and what not to do; if this is so, there is a common law also; if this is so, we are fellow-citizens; if this is so, we are members of some political community.”
Marcus Aurelius
The Stoic philosopher Epictetus shared similar thoughts on this topic, which were recorded in his Discourses:
“Do as Socrates did, never replying to the question of where he was from with: ‘I am Athenian,’ or ‘I am from Corinth,’ but always: ‘I am a citizen of the world’.”
Epictetus
The Stoic view on cosmopolitanism breaks down the narrowness of deterministic views on cultural origins. It tackles nationalism, fascism, tribalism and even the capitalistic, economic class systems. All those mentioned “-isms” thrive for those who perpetuate them, while the other half of humans must fall behind in one way or the other, thus resulting in suffering.
The point of Stoic philosophy is that artificial differences between people can be harmful and destructive (keep in mind the history of all our wars, especially WWII). It is okay to respect your culture and traditions, but it is disrespectful and unhuman to treat others as a “lower” species, just because they were born somewhere else or have different physical characteristics.
The positive point of cosmopolitanism is to highlight the responsibilities we have to people we do not know. It is an action that is founded on mutual respect and compassion. Therefore, cosmopolitanism isn’t only a logical conclusion from metaphysics, it is also an ethical duty towards others based on compassion, understanding and justice.
Meditation – Oneness With All
To achieve a cosmopolitan attitude, we suggest practicing a thought experiment that can tickle your imagination and further thinking. So, let’s consult John Rawls’ A Theory of Justice and imagine this scenario:
“…no one knows his place in society, his class position or social status, nor does anyone know his fortune in the distribution of natural assets and abilities, his intelligence, strength, and the like. I shall even assume that the parties do not know their conceptions of the good or their special psychological propensities. The principles of justice are chosen behind a veil of ignorance.”
John Rawls
According to Rawls, ignorance of these assets and abilities will lead you to principles that are fair to all. The “veil of ignorance” essentially blinds people to all facts about themselves so they cannot tailor principles to their own advantage. In other words, all you have is your mind and reason to determine what would be a just society and how we should treat one another.
This theory reflects Stoic thinking as well, because behind the veil of ignorance stands a mind that represents the core of our being. Try to place yourself in this original position and think of what an ideal society would look like. Now that you have that image, act on it.
