Reviewing ancient and modern Stoics to determine if they are overrated, underrated, or appropriately rated. Exploring the contributions of Zeno of Sidium and critiquing Ryan Holiday's promotion of Stoicism. Delving into worst-case scenario contemplation and the significance of journaling for mental reflection and clarity.
Zeno is considered overrated for not aligning with later Stoic philosophers like Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus.
Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' provide valuable insights into Stoicism and inspire many practitioners.
Seneca offers practical and heartfelt Stoic advice tailored for modern readers, making him underrated.
Epictetus, known for profound quotes, emphasizes ethics and virtuous living, resonating with modern Stoics.
Victor Frankl's 'Man's Search for Meaning' showcases resilience and finding purpose in adversity, aligning with Stoic principles.
Cato the Younger's commitment to Stoicism through actions showcases practical living of Stoic values, making him underrated.
Deep dives
Zeno of Sidium - Overrated Father of Stoicism
Zeno, the father of Stoicism, is considered overrated by the hosts of the podcast. While he is credited for starting Stoicism, his teachings have been criticized for not aligning with later Stoic philosophers like Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus. Specifically, his perspectives on love have been highlighted as contradictory to other Stoic beliefs.
Marcus Aurelius - Appropriately Rated Face of Stoicism
Marcus Aurelius, known for 'Meditations,' is deemed appropriately rated by the hosts. His works, especially 'Meditations,' provide valuable insights into Stoicism and are accessible to beginners. While some context in his writings may be misunderstood, his teachings have inspired many to practice Stoicism.
Seneca - Underrated Stoic Influencer
Seneca, known for his letters and teachings in Stoicism, is considered underrated by the hosts. His influential works, particularly 'Letters from a Stoic,' offer practical and heartfelt advice tailored for modern readers. Seneca's style of writing and relatable content make him a valuable figure in teaching Stoicism to a new generation.
Epictetus - Underrated Stoic Philosopher
Epictetus, known for his profound quotes and teachings, is viewed as underrated by the hosts. Despite the lack of personal writings, his students documented his teachings in works like 'Enchiridion.' Epictetus' emphasis on ethics and living virtuously resonates well with modern Stoic practitioners.
Victor Frankl - Underrated Inspirational Figure
Victor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and founder of logotherapy, is recognized as underrated by the hosts. His book, 'Man's Search for Meaning,' showcases his resilience and profound wisdom in finding purpose even in the darkest times. Frankl's teachings, though not directly tied to Stoicism, align with its principles of finding meaning in adversity.
Ryan Holiday - Appropriately Rated Modern Stoic Mentor
Ryan Holiday, known for 'The Daily Stoic' podcast, is considered appropriately rated by the hosts. His contributions in bringing Stoicism to a contemporary audience through various platforms have garnered significant recognition. While his influence is commendable, some critique his application of Stoic principles in certain situations.
Cato the Younger - Underrated Stoic Practitioner
Cato the Younger, known for his Stoic principles and opposition to corruption, is seen as underrated by the hosts. Despite limited written works, Cato's commitment to Stoicism through actions such as standing against Julius Caesar and upholding traditions showcases a practical example of living Stoic values.
Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle - Overrated Classic Philosophers
Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle are collectively viewed as overrated by the hosts. While their contributions to philosophy are significant, the hosts believe that their teachings may not align entirely with Stoic principles, leading to a perception of overemphasis on these figures as representatives of philosophy as a whole.
Memento Mori - Appropriately Rated Reflective Tool
The concept of 'Memento Mori,' reminding oneself of mortality, is considered appropriately rated by the hosts. While widely recognized, its impact in fostering gratitude, perspective, and a sense of urgency in daily life is acknowledged. The hosts appreciate its simple yet profound influence on living meaningfully.
Amor Fati - Overrated Visualization Concept
The concept of 'Amor Fati,' loving one's fate, is deemed overrated by the hosts. While it can be interpreted as acknowledging and accepting life's challenges, the hosts express concerns that excessive focus on negative visualization may lead to anxiety and fear, contradicting Stoic principles of living in the present.
Oral Borys and Karma - Appropriately Rated Symbolic Concept
The concept of 'Oral Borys,' symbolizing the eternal cycle of destruction and rebirth, is viewed as appropriately rated by the hosts. While not directly linked to Stoicism, its representation of cyclical forces in life resonates with the ideas of cause and effect found in Stoic philosophy.
Journaling - Appropriately Rated Reflective Practice
Journaling, a tool for self-reflection and introspection, is considered appropriately rated by the hosts. While it has gained popularity for its mental benefits, the hosts believe more people could benefit from journaling due to its ability to enhance self-awareness, mental clarity, and personal growth.
The concept of 'Crimatostio Melorum,' practicing negative visualization, is seen as overrated by the hosts. While acknowledging potential benefits of preparing for setbacks, the hosts caution against excessive worrying about future events, which may lead to anxiety and detract from living stoically in the present moment.
Oracle Borus: The Eternal Cycle - Appropriately Rated Philosophical Symbol
Oracle Borus, symbolizing the eternal cycle of destruction and rebirth, is considered appropriately rated by the hosts. While not directly associated with Stoicism, its representation of cyclic forces in life aligns with Stoic concepts of accepting the nature of things. This concept acknowledges the interconnectedness and balance of actions in the universe.
Journaling: Personal Reflective Tool - Underrated Self-Reflection Practice
Journaling, a practice for self-reflection and mental organization, is seen as underrated by the hosts. Despite its widespread benefits, the hosts believe that more individuals could benefit from journaling due to its potential to enhance clarity, awareness, and emotional well-being. The adaptable nature of journaling allows for personalized expression and growth.
As practicing Stoics, it’s essential to consistently review the nature of this particular school of philosophy. This week, we review ancient and modern Stoics and common Stoic concepts to determine if they are overrated, underrated, or appropriately rated. This week’s episode uncovers our genuine opinions on the nature of the great Stoics that inspired this podcast and many more like it. We encourage you to engage in our discussion, by listening in and giving us your opinions on Stoic philosophy and its famed teachers.
Additionally, we have some exciting updates for the upcoming year! First and foremost, we are now officially streaming our podcast on Rumble. Be sure to check us out there if you haven't already. We have also added TWO individual stoic readings weekly, but ONLY on our audio streaming services. Follow us on all platforms for updates and engagement opportunities, see the show behind the scenes, and join the Gen Z Stoic community. Thank you for listening. https://linktr.ee/genzstoic
