Summary of Stoicism

Stoicism is a practical philosophy, founded by Zeno of Citium in the 4th century BCE. It is grounded in the belief that happiness and contentment can be achieved by living according to nature and virtue and by doing one's duty. The primary goal of Stoic practice is the attainment of moral and spiritual perfection, or ataraxia. The core values of Stoicism include temperance, courage, justice, and wisdom. Practices such as contemplation, meditations, and self-reflection are used to develop self-control and develop one's virtues. Stoicism emphasizes the importance of self-responsibility and of living according to one's own principles. The philosophy also encourages humans to make use of logic and reason in order to better understand the world and operate within it.