Caleb speaks with Allan from What Is Stoicism about the practice of Stoicism as a philosophy of daily life. They discuss underrated Stoic ideas, Stoic exercises, widening the domain of being, philosophy as gardening, and stoic meditation.
Underrated Stoic idea: the importance of intention behind actions and the value of doing good for its own sake.
Stoicism as a practical philosophy that requires daily practice, patience, repetition, and attention to cultivate a healthy mind.
Deep dives
The Power of Intention
One underrated Stoic idea is the importance of intention. Stoics believe that it is not only the result of our actions that matters, but also the intention behind those actions. They emphasize the value of doing good for its own sake and the awareness that doing good can increase peace of mind and lead to more effective actions.
Philosophy as a Practical Pursuit
Stoicism is a practical philosophy that encourages daily practice. Just as a gardener tends to their plants regularly, a Stoic tends to their thoughts and attitudes. It requires patience, repetition, and attention to cultivate a healthy mind. By making decisions with reference to Stoic virtues, separating what is within our control from what is not, and focusing on the present moment, we can embody Stoic principles in our daily lives.
The Pleasure of Benefiting Others
Stoicism challenges the dichotomy between selfishness and altruism, suggesting that benefiting others is also a form of self-interest. By treating others well and seeking to improve our character, we experience a more refined kind of selfishness. This aligns with the Stoic belief that harming others ultimately harms ourselves, while benefitting others benefits ourselves as well.
Stoic Meditation as Contemplation
Stoic meditation involves conscious contemplation of philosophical principles and engaging in an inner dialogue. It allows us to reflect on our impressions and form judgments based on Stoic principles. Stoic meditation can take various forms, such as meditating on Stoic texts, examining our intentions for the day, or reflecting on our reactions to certain situations. It is a valuable practice for cementing Stoic thinking and improving self-awareness.