Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied Stoic Ideas That Cut Against Modern Culture (Episode 213)
Dec 9, 2025
Explore how Stoic philosophy challenges modern beliefs with seven provocative truths. Happiness isn't determined by politics, and anger is deemed ineffective and harmful. Victimhood and success don't grant moral authority, and our roles in life come with obligations we can't choose. Discover that most people live in luxury today, and some lives are inherently better for flourishing. Plus, delve into the idea that no one truly intends to do evil, highlighting the importance of understanding over judgment.
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Politics Doesn't Control Your Happiness
- Politics can't make you unhappy unless you participate in that unhappiness by judging it so.
- Stoics say happiness depends on your internal judgments, not external political events.
Examine Your Political Reactions
- If politics riles you, examine your participation and judgments instead of blaming external events.
- Use political motivation to act justly rather than to let it disrupt your inner life.
Anger Is Always Counterproductive
- Stoics hold that anger is always a negative passion and never appropriate as moral justification.
- They argue anger undermines effectiveness and misaligns with virtuous action.