Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied Why Stoicism is False | Cicero's On Ends IV (Episode 179)
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Apr 15, 2025 Caleb and Michael delve into Cicero's sharp critique of Stoic ethics, arguing that it oversimplifies the complexities of external goods. They explore the emotional and social dimensions neglected by Stoics, advocating for a more comprehensive Aristotelian approach. The discussion also questions whether Stoicism merely plays with definitions of virtue and good. By contrasting philosophical viewpoints, they reveal how combining insights from both Stoicism and Aristotelianism could enhance our understanding of happiness and human nature.
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Stoicism vs. Aristotelianism
- Stoicism, derived from Aristotelianism, emphasizes virtue but calls external goods "preferred" instead of "good".
- This distinction makes little practical difference, as both Stoics and Aristotelians pursue externals like money and friendship.
Emotional Differences
- Aristotelians can justifiably feel emotions like sadness and anger when harmed, unlike Stoics.
- This difference significantly impacts emotional life and how one approaches situations.
Mind vs. Body
- Stoics prioritize the mind over the body, reducing identity to the mind and downgrading externals.
- Cicero challenges this, arguing that nature demonstrates the body's importance and that other philosophies acknowledge it.
