Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied Why Most Things Do Not Matter: Indifferents (Episode 154)
Oct 22, 2024
What if your daily obsessions don't really matter? The ancient Stoics proposed the concept of 'indifferents,' highlighting that wealth, fame, and even health are not inherently good or bad. This intriguing discussion dives into the Stoic classification of indifferents and the importance of wise decision-making in leading a virtuous life. Unpack these radical ideas and explore how they can reshape your perspective on what truly counts.
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Virtue as Unconditional Good
- Stoics believe the good is unconditionally good and identified virtue as that good.
- If you see something as good, you'll naturally be motivated to pursue it, linking belief to motivation.
Indifferents Are Not Good or Bad
- Indifferents like health, wealth, or death are neither good nor bad in themselves.
- What's vital is how we use these things; virtue, not circumstances, defines goodness.
Choosing Between Preferred and Dispreferred
- Preferred indifferents are naturally chosen, dispreferred are naturally avoided but neither are ultimately good or bad.
- Virtue is shown by skillfully choosing between these indifferents depending on circumstances.