Orlando Stoics

Welcome to Orlando Stoics

Orlando Stoics is an active community of more than 5,000 members, with several meetings held each week. Some events take place in person, while others are held online. All meetings and classes are free.

What Is Stoicism?

Stoicism is a practical school of philosophy founded in Athens around 300 BCE by Zeno of Citium. It teaches that a good life is built upon wisdom, character, and virtue. Stoics seek to live in accordance with nature and reason while practicing courage, justice, self-control, and resilience.
Our discussions draw from ancient Stoic thinkers such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, as well as modern writers and practitioners.

Why Study Stoicism?

In a world of constant stimulation, instant gratification, and endless distraction, Stoicism offers a different way of approaching life. It teaches us to distinguish between what is within our control and what is not, respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively, and preserve our character during difficult circumstances.

We also explore connections between Stoicism and Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Existentialism, Minimalism, psychology, and other traditions concerned with philosophy as a way of life. Our meetings encourage thoughtful questions, respectful disagreement, and in-depth discussion.

What We Do

• Read and discuss ancient and modern works on Stoicism.
• Examine Stoic themes in literature, art, media, and popular culture.
• Compare Stoic ideas with insights from history, religion, psychology, and other philosophical traditions.

Stoicism has influenced people from many different backgrounds, including writers, political leaders, soldiers, activists, and ordinary people seeking to live with greater clarity and purpose. Its appeal lies not in promising an easy life, but in helping us meet life’s difficulties with sound judgment, resilience, and integrity.

Joining the Group

Our group is open to the public, and there are no membership or subscription fees. Because we post new meetings frequently, Meetup notifications may generate more emails than you prefer. You can adjust them by visiting our Meetup page, selecting “You’re a Member,” and then choosing “Group Notifications.” You may turn off the emails and still visit the page whenever you would like to see upcoming events.
Whether you are completely new to Stoicism or have studied it for years, you are welcome to join us.

We hope to see you at an upcoming meeting.