Exploring the Stoic Art of Intentional Desire

This week, we’ll explore the Stoic concept of boulēsis and its role as one of the three good emotional states (eupatheiai). Boulēsis is an ancient Greek term that translates to “wish,” “willing,” or “desire,” particularly a rational desire that is connected to reason and virtue. The reading focuses on the different ways this term has been translated, and how we can refine its meaning to enhance modern Stoic practice.

In Stoicism, boulēsis is often described as a rational form of wishing, but its inclusion as a “good” emotional state may seem puzzling, especially in a philosophy that teaches us to align our desires with the course of events. By delving into its roots in ancient Greek and Roman thought, we’ll examine how boulēsis relates to concepts of intention, purpose, and rational pursuit—showing that Stoic “wishing” is not about passive longing but about active, deliberate focus toward a good goal.

We’ll also reflect on how this Stoic “focus” differs from modern understandings of willpower and desire, and how aligning our boulēsis with our moral and practical goals can lead to more meaningful action. This session will help us deepen our understanding of Stoic emotional states and explore how to apply them for greater clarity and purpose in our everyday lives.

Reading Material:
‘Wishing, Willing, or What? Exploring Stoic Boulēsis’ by Judith Stove
https://modernstoicism.com/wishing-willing-or-what-exploring-stoic-boulesis-by-judith-stove/

Wish (Boulesis) or Rational Desire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYfQ-Q8Rp4A

Time:
7:00 PM Eastern
6:00 PM Central
5:00 PM Mountain
4:00 PM Pacific

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Our group welcomes open-minded, respectful discussion on Stoicism and its relevance to daily life, emotional mastery, and personal growth. We explore how Stoic ideas can help us align our intentions with reality, guiding us toward deliberate, meaningful action.
This meeting is free and open to the public.open to the public.