Stoicism and Winning Ethically:
- Stoics advocate for achieving success through ethical means, rejecting the notion of winning at any cost or resorting to cheating.
- Chrysippus, a prominent Stoic philosopher, emphasized the significance of competing with integrity and refraining from harming others to secure victory.
- The philosophy of Stoicism underscores taking accountability, playing fairly, and upholding self-respect even if it results in potential losses in certain circumstances.
- "Runners in a race ought to compete and strive to win as hard as they can, but by no means should they trip their competitors or give them a shove." - Chrysippus
Resurgence of Stoicism and Philosophy Evolution:
- The resurgence of Stoicism is linked to the rapid dissemination of ideas that resonate with individuals during periods marked by institutional decline and turmoil.
- Philosophical concepts evolve over time as societal values shift, with ancient philosophies like Stoicism adapting to contemporary breakthroughs and cultural norms.
- Updating philosophical assumptions based on new insights is crucial for maintaining relevance and applicability in today's society.
- "There was this moment between Cicero and Marcus Aurelius when man stood alone in the universe. People look backwards to find truths... They're looking for answers." - Flaubert
Critiques on Broicism and Misuse of Stoic Principles:
- Some critics express concerns about the misinterpretation and exploitation of Stoic principles, particularly within male-centric contexts known as "broicism."
- While instances exist where individuals misuse Stoic ideas for personal gain or manipulation, promoting a comprehensive understanding that encompasses virtues beyond masculinity is essential.
- Addressing misconceptions about Stoicism being emotion-suppressing or self-centered is vital to preserve the authentic essence of the philosophy.
- "I have no problem calling those people out, pointing out that it's perverting the philosophy... pushing back on this idea that Stoicism is just for men." - Ryan Holiday