333 - Do Better, Be Better: Maintaining Stoic Virtue in Times of Turmoil
Feb 27, 2025
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In a world rife with political division, maintaining Stoic principles is crucial. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how anger and resentment affect both personal well-being and society. Embracing virtues like wisdom and justice during turbulent times can foster meaningful dialogue. Cultivating compassion and self-control in political discussions serves as a pathway to healing rather than division. The insights inspire a return to core values, promoting kindness and collaboration in the face of turmoil.
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Quick takeaways
Maintaining Stoic principles amidst political turmoil encourages self-control and rational thought, counteracting the damaging effects of fear and anger.
Emphasizing justice as a core Stoic virtue promotes equitable treatment and collective effort, fostering compassion and constructive engagement with differing viewpoints.
Deep dives
The Cost of Tribalism
Tribalism negatively impacts society by framing political discourse as an us-versus-them mentality, which undermines our ability to think clearly. This mindset leads to viewing opponents not as fellow citizens, but as enemies, resulting in hostility and division even among friends and family. The consequences include fractured relationships and increased societal discord, as people shift their focus from common humanity to winning political arguments. Practicing stoicism encourages individuals to rise above this division and recognize our shared responsibility as part of the same human community.
The Role of Fear in Politics
Fear is identified as a damaging force in political environments, prompting reactions that often stem from misinformation or misunderstanding. Political leaders exploit this fear to galvanize support against others, diverting attention from meaningful solutions to societal issues. Stoicism teaches that true strength lies in self-control and rational thought, urging individuals to pause and reassess when feelings of anger and fear arise. Reflecting on the justification of these emotions is essential for maintaining clarity and wisdom in political discussions.
Justice and Compassion in Civic Responsibility
Justice is a core stoic virtue, emphasizing equitable treatment and concern for the well-being of others, regardless of their background. This perspective stresses that societal progress depends on collective effort and treating others with fairness, even amidst disagreements. The call for individuals to stand up for justice rather than self-interest highlights the importance of promoting compassion and kindness in all interactions. By embodying these principles, individuals contribute to a more equitable society while fostering constructive engagement with differing viewpoints.
In times of political division, it’s easy to be swept away by anger, resentment, and fear. But what does that accomplish? Does your anger towards those that disagree with you help yourself or the world? In this episode I want to talk about the importance of maintaining your Stoic principles in times of turmoil.
“The essence of good and evil consists in the condition of our character. And externals are the means by which our character finds its particular good and evil.”