Stoicism 101

Stoicism 101

https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/6/4/2/600_461833890.jpeg

Dan has graciously agreed to introduce Plato's Cave and Inquiring Minds to the philosophy of stoicism.

Stoicism teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions; the philosophy holds that becoming a clear and unbiased thinker allows one to understand the universal reason (logos). A primary aspect of Stoicism involves improving the individual's ethical and moral well-being: "Virtue consists in a will that is in agreement with Nature." This principle also applies to the realm of interpersonal relationships; "to be free from anger, envy, and jealousy," and to accept even slaves as "equals of other men, because all men alike are products of nature."

Here are Dan’s suggested readings for those who would like to do a little preparation for the discussion.

Published in the year 125, the Enchiridion by Epictetus is a slim book of wisdom about the human condition, how to deal with pain and difficulty, and ultimately how to apply reason to everyday situations. I personally consider this book 1 of the 5 classic Stoic books (the others are by Seneca and Marcus Aurelius). To paraphrase a famous quote from The Enchiridion: "bad things don't upset us, we allow ourselves to become upset by them." I will present several gems like this on Sunday and also tie Stoic writing to some famous authors and other belief systems. Link about The Enchiridion
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enchiridion_of_Epictetus

Link to The Enchiridion (free book)
http://classics.mit.edu/Epictetus/epicench.html

Link about Stoicism in general
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoicism

Link to Orlando Stoics (meets Monday & Saturday nights)
https://www.meetup.com/Orlando-Stoics/