Join Melvyn Bragg as he explores the profound philosophy of Stoicism with Angie Hobbs, Jonathan Rée, and David Sedley. Delve into the origins of Stoicism, its influence on Roman thinkers, and its impact on modern thought. Discover how Stoicism promotes inner resilience, acceptance of fate, and alignment with divine reason, with insights on famous Stoic figures like Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius. Uncover the philosophical connections between Stoicism, Christianity, and Victorian England, and ponder the enduring legacy of this ancient philosophy.
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Quick takeaways
Stoicism promoted inner solitude and acceptance of fate as key virtues in life.
Stoicism influenced Roman leaders like Marcus Aurelius and Renaissance thinkers, impacting philosophy and culture.
Deep dives
The Foundations of Stoicism
Stoicism, founded by Zeno in the 4th century BC, emphasized inner solitude, forbearance in adversity, and acceptance of fate. This philosophy became dominant in the ancient world with notable figures such as Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher emperor, adopting its principles.
The Stoic Philosophy and Inner Retreat
Stoicism presented a systematic approach based on logic, physics, and ethics. It promoted a deterministic cosmos governed by divine reason, where humans, as part of the greater whole, found happiness and virtue in aligning with the providential plan. The Stoics believed that living in accordance with nature involved accepting all events, even adversities, as part of a greater rational design.
Stoicism's Influence and Legacy
Stoicism spread to Rome, impacting figures like Cato the Younger and influencing the Roman mindset. Figures like Seneca, advisor to Nero, and Emperor Marcus Aurelius expressed Stoic ideals in their lives. Stoicism's resurgence in the Renaissance and connection with Christianity reflected a shift in philosophical and religious ideologies, resonating with individuals seeking solace and guidance in turbulent times.
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Stoicism, the third great philosophy of the Ancient World. It was founded by Zeno in the fourth century BC and flourished in Greece and then in Rome. Its ideals of inner solitude, forbearance in adversity and the acceptance of fate won many brilliant adherents and made it the dominant philosophy across the whole of the Ancient World. The ex-slave Epictetus said "Man is troubled not by events, but by the meaning he gives them". Seneca, the politician, declared that "Life without the courage for death is slavery". The stoic thoughts of Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher emperor, provided a rallying point for empire builders into the modern age.Stoicism influenced the Christian church, had a big effect on Shakespeare and Renaissance drama and may even have given the British their 'stiff upper lip', but it's a philosophy that was almost forgotten in the 20th century. Does it still have a legacy for us today?With Angie Hobbs, Lecturer in Philosophy, University of Warwick; Jonathan Rée, philosopher and historian; David Sedley, Laurence Professor of Ancient Philosophy, University of Cambridge.
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