A Talk with Tanner Campbell, co-author of What is Stoicism?
What Is Stoicism?: A Brief and Accessible Overview
By Tanner Campbell and Kai Whiting
Category: Philosophy
US Pub Date: November 19, 2024 * UK Pub Date: December 19, 2024
Price: $16.95 * Format: Trade Paperback * Pages: 120
ISBN: 978-1-60868-944-6 * Also available as an ebook
Why do they say that Stoicism is anything but a “dead white man” philosophy?
Stoicism has timeless relevance that transcends the era and demographics of its origin (though, the demographics of Ancient Greece, and the Mediterranean at large, were extremely diverse). Its principles focus on universal human experiences, such as dealing with adversity, cultivating inner peace, and practicing virtue. This makes it applicable to people of all backgrounds, genders, and cultures today. It is not any one group’s philosophy, because the acquisition of Virtue is a worthy pursuit for any and every person.
What does it mean to become good according to Stoicism?
In Stoicism, becoming good means living in accordance with nature and reason. It involves developing virtues like wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance, and aligning one’s actions with these principles to achieve moral excellence and inner tranquility.
How does ancient Stoic wisdom apply to modern life?
Ancient Stoic wisdom offers practical tools for managing stress, making ethical decisions, and maintaining a balanced perspective amidst life’s challenges. Concepts like mindfulness, acceptance of what we cannot control, and focusing on personal growth are as relevant now as they were centuries ago.
Why is the popularity of Stoicism among male life-hackers different from its historical reality?
While modern interpretations often emphasize Stoicism’s aspects of resilience and toughness, the historical reality is that Stoicism is a comprehensive philosophy that includes compassion, community involvement, and a deep commitment to personal and social ethics.
How does Stoicism call us to do our part as world citizens?
Stoicism teaches that we are all part of a larger human community. It encourages us to act with kindness, fairness, and a sense of duty towards others, promoting social harmony and the well-being of society as a whole.
Is belief in God necessary for practicing Stoicism?
Stoicism is flexible regarding belief in God. While ancient Stoics believed in a rational, providential order, modern practitioners can interpret Stoic principles in a secular manner, focusing on rationality, ethics, and personal development without the necessity of a spiritual belief.
Can you explain the three pillars of Stoic philosophy: logic, physics, and ethics?
Logic: The study of reasoning and argumentation, helping us think clearly and avoid errors in judgment
Physics: Understanding the nature of the universe and our place within it, fostering acceptance of what we cannot change
Ethics: The practical application of wisdom to live a virtuous life, focusing on character and moral integrity.
What is the ultimate goal of Stoicism?
The ultimate goal of Stoicism is to achieve eudaimonia, often translated as flourishing or happiness. This is attained by living a life of virtue, in harmony with nature and reason, and by cultivating inner tranquility and resilience.
How does the Stoic concept of circles of concern influence our responsibilities?
The circles of concern illustrate our expanding obligations, starting with ourselves and extending to our family, community, and the world. Stoicism teaches us to balance our responsibilities and act with empathy and justice towards all levels of our interactions.
What does it mean to live in accordance with nature according to Stoicism?
Living in accordance with nature means understanding and accepting the natural order, including human nature. It involves cultivating virtues that align with our rational and social nature, striving for personal excellence, and contributing positively to society.
Tanner Campbell is an American philosopher of Stoicism living in Newcastle upon Tyne in the United Kingdom. He is the producer and host of the Practical Stoicism podcast and was named one of the 22 Top Influencers in Podcasting by Podcast magazine. Kai Whiting is a lecturer and researcher and the coauthor of Being Better: Stoicism for a World Worth Living In. He has discussed Stoicism in publications such as The Financial Times, UnHerd, and Vice. He lives in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. More information at TannerCampbell.net and StoicKai.com.
