Correcting Misconceptions About Stoicism (Interview with Gregory B. Sadler)
Mar 26, 2025
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In a fascinating conversation, Gregory B. Sadler, President of Reason.io, dispels common myths surrounding Stoicism. He humorously tackles misattributions of Stoic quotes and emphasizes that true Stoicism involves community, not solitude. The discussion also highlights the philosophy’s evolving perception, especially regarding masculinity and emotional expression, advocating for inclusivity. From critiquing competitive parenting to redefining perfectionism in learning, Sadler shares insights that make Stoic principles more relatable and accessible for everyone.
Stoicism is often misunderstood as promoting emotional suppression, but it actually encourages awareness and management of our emotional responses to external events.
The philosophy recognizes the complexity of anger, advocating for its constructive management in support of justice rather than complete suppression.
Stoicism is inclusive and applicable to all, promoting the cultivation of virtue and moral character regardless of gender or background, highlighting its social dimensions.
Deep dives
Misconceptions of Stoicism
Many misconceptions about Stoicism arise from a misunderstanding of its core principles. One prevalent myth is the belief that Stoicism promotes emotional suppression or indifference to external events. In reality, Stoicism teaches that while we may not control external circumstances, we can control our responses and emotions towards them. This philosophy encourages individuals to recognize and accept their feelings rather than suppress them, allowing for a more balanced emotional state.
The Role of Anger in Stoicism
Another significant topic discussed is the Stoics' view on anger, particularly how it should be managed rather than eliminated. While figures like Seneca argue that anger is rarely justifiable, they acknowledge that some level of anger can be appropriate when it directs us toward justice or defense of loved ones. The key lies in recognizing when anger is constructive versus when it leads to destructive behavior. Stoicism advocates for understanding and managing anger through practical reason to prevent it from causing harm.
Stoicism as an Inclusive Philosophy
Stoicism is often perceived as a male-dominated philosophy, leading to the misconception that it does not apply to women or individuals of diverse backgrounds. However, Stoicism's teachings on virtue, ethics, and understanding one's emotions are universally applicable to all people. It emphasizes the cultivation of wisdom and moral character irrespective of gender or identity, encouraging a practical approach to life that everyone can benefit from. By engaging with Stoicism, individuals can derive insights that help them navigate their own unique challenges.
The Importance of Judgment in Stoicism
The idea that Stoicism advocates for a non-judgmental mindset is another misunderstanding that needs clarification. Stoics do believe in the concept of indifference, yet this does not equate to a lack of judgment about moral action or behavior. In fact, Stoicism encourages discerning what is virtuous and what is not, advocating for an active engagement with the world rather than complacency. This active judgment is crucial for personal growth and making ethical choices in life.
Community and Social Connections in Stoicism
Contrary to the belief that Stoicism promotes isolation or a lone-wolf mentality, it actually emphasizes the significance of community and social bonds. Stoics recognize that humans are inherently social creatures, and forming relationships is essential for a flourishing life. The philosophy supports the idea that engaging with others and contributing to one's community enriches the practice of Stoicism, allowing individuals to apply its teachings in meaningful ways. This social aspect counters the stereotype of Stoicism as solely an individualistic pursuit.
Lessons from Cicero and Other Philosophers
The discussion also highlights the valuable insights from philosophers like Cicero, who contributed to the understanding of Stoicism through his critiques and interpretations. Cicero's works illuminate areas where Stoicism can be misunderstood, such as its stance on virtue, happiness, and ethics. By analyzing his texts, individuals can better grasp the complexities of Stoic thought and how it intersects with other philosophical traditions. Engaging with a variety of philosophical perspectives enriches one's understanding of Stoicism and its practical applications in modern life.
In this episode, I talk to Gregory B. Sadler. Through his public speaking, content production (including videos for a YouTube channel with over 150,000 subscribers), consulting, and philosophical counseling, Greg makes classical and contemporary philosophy accessible to non-philosophers.
I really enjoyed this conversation, in which we mainly discussed the many misconceptions there are about what Stoicism really is. Greg did a great job of clearing these misunderstandings up, so I think this will be a really useful episode for those who want to learn more about Stoicism to listen to. I hope you enjoy.
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