Is Acceptance a Virtue or a Vice?

Acceptance sits close to the heart of Stoicism. We can't control everything that happens to us, and much of Stoic philosophy is about learning to recognise this, accept reality as it is, and focus our energy on the things we can actually influence. At its best, acceptance can bring perspective, resilience and peace of mind.

But is acceptance always a good thing? There are circumstances we probably shouldn't simply accept. Injustice, unhealthy relationships, our own shortcomings, or situations where something genuinely could be changed. At what point does accepting what we cannot control become an excuse for doing nothing about the things we can?

As Epictetus put it:

"Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens."

Perhaps the real difficulty is knowing the difference. Does acceptance mean approving of what has happened, or simply acknowledging reality before deciding what to do about it? Can we accept a situation while still fighting to change it? And are there times when dissatisfaction, resistance or even anger might be more virtuous than acceptance?

These are just starting points for the conversation. As always, there's no set agenda and no particular conclusion we're trying to reach. The discussion can go wherever the group takes it, and different perspectives are very welcome.

Whether you've been studying Stoicism for years, have only recently come across it, or know absolutely nothing about it, you're very welcome to join us. No prior knowledge or reading is required, just an interest in the question and a willingness to listen and share your thoughts.

If the meeting shows as full, please don't let that put you off coming along. Meetup limits us to 10 RSVPs, but the group itself is open to many more people and there is usually plenty of room.