Chatter: Stoicism and the Military with Prof. Nancy Sherman
Oct 8, 2024
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Nancy Sherman, a professor at Georgetown University and author of 'Stoic Warriors', discusses the influence of Stoicism on military ethics and resilience. She reveals how ancient principles shape decision-making and emotional regulation among service members. Sherman explores the duality of anger in military contexts, emphasizing control over uncontrolled emotions. The conversation highlights the significance of community support and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers, as well as the growing appeal of Stoicism in modern society.
Stoicism teaches that while we cannot control external events, we can control our emotional responses, fostering resilience during challenging times.
The philosophy of Stoicism resonates deeply within the military context, aiding personnel in managing the unique stresses and moral dilemmas of combat.
Current popularity of Stoicism highlights its appeal as a straightforward, secular approach to stress management, though it sometimes risks oversimplifying its profound teachings.
Deep dives
Understanding Stoicism
Stoicism is often misunderstood; many assume it signifies a stiff upper lip and emotional suppression. In reality, Stoicism emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and managing emotions through training and preparation for unfavorable outcomes. It involves understanding that while external events are beyond individual control, one's responses to those events can be shaped. This includes techniques for anticipating difficulties and practicing emotional regulation to maintain resilience during challenging times.
The Role of Stoicism in Military Culture
Stoicism has found relevance within the military, particularly in how it can enhance mental fortitude and decision-making. Cadets and soldiers often resonate with Stoic principles, recognizing that it equips them to handle the intense pressures of military life. The teachings of historical Stoics like Epictetus have been embraced by military personnel, such as Admiral James Stockdale, who found guidance in Stoic philosophy during his time as a POW. Thus, Stoicism serves as a useful framework for confronting the moral and emotional challenges faced in combat.
Ethics and Leadership in the Military
Teaching ethics at military academies has become crucial, especially highlighted by past scandals like a cheating incident involving midshipmen. This experience underscored the necessity for thorough ethical training to instill a sense of responsibility and integrity in future leaders. Ethical dilemmas in the military, including just war principles and the moral weight of commands, require a grounded philosophical approach for soldiers to navigate. Training programs now address these challenges, encouraging cadets to consider the broader implications of their actions.
Emotional Resilience in Combat
Emotional resilience is vital for soldiers who face the aftermath of combat, including trauma and moral injury. Stoicism, while beneficial in controlling one's responses, may not always address the complex emotional needs of those recovering from war. Support systems, including therapy and community reintegration programs, are essential for veterans grappling with their experiences. Acknowledging pain and injustice allows service members to heal while cultivating a balanced perspective on their duties and the nature of conflict.
The Appeal of Stoicism Today
The current popularity of Stoicism can be attributed to its accessibility and its appeal as a secular alternative to organized religion. Many individuals appreciate the philosophy's straightforward teachings, allowing them to practice it in everyday life without the need for communal gatherings. Tech entrepreneurs, scholars, and others are drawn to Stoicism for its practical wisdom in managing stress and uncertainty. The trend, while beneficial in some respects, can sometimes result in oversimplified interpretations that overlook the depth of Stoic philosophy.
Stoicism is having a moment.The ancient philosophy--which posits that you can’t control events, but you can control how you respond to them--has lately been embraced by self-help gurus and tech bros. But Nancy Sherman writes that the tenets of Stoicism have long found a receptive audience in “the military mind.” Whether they know it or not, soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines are guided by many of the principles espoused by Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius.
Sherman, a professor at Georgetown University, is the author of several books, including Stoic Warriors: The Ancient Philosophy behind the Military Mind. She spoke with Shane Harris about why Stoic virtues resonate with those who serve in uniform and what the philosophy can teach everyone about how to live well amid uncertainty and struggle.
Books and people discussed in this episode include:
Chatter is a production of Lawfare and Goat Rodeo. This episode was produced and edited by Isabelle Kerby-McGowan and Megan Nadolski of Goat Rodeo. Podcast theme by David Priess, featuring music created using Groovepad.