Stoicism originated in ancient Greece from "summary" of Stoicism by John Sellars
The origins of Stoicism can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it emerged as a philosophical school of thought in the early 3rd century BCE. Founded by Zeno of Citium, Stoicism quickly gained popularity and spread throughout the Hellenistic world. Zeno's teachings were heavily influenced by earlier philosophical traditions, particularly those of Socrates, Plato, and the Cynics. One of the key tenets of Stoicism is the belief that virtue is the only true good and that external things, such as wealth, health, and reputation, are ultimately indifferent. This focus on virtue as the highest good was a radical departure from the prevailing philosophical views of the time, which often placed a strong emphasis on material wealth and success. Stoicism also emphasized the importance of living in accordance with nature, a concept that was central to the Stoic worldview. According to the Stoics, the universe is governed by reason, or logos, and humans have a duty to live in harmony with this rational order. This meant accepting whatever life threw their way with equanimity and maintaining a sense of inner tranquility regardless of external circumstances. The Stoics believed in the power of reason to help individuals navigate the ups and downs of life and to cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment. They advocated for the practice of self-discipline, self-control, and self-awareness as a means of achieving a state of moral and intellectual excellence. This emphasis on self-improvement and personal growth was a central aspect of Stoic philosophy and set it apart from other philosophical traditions of the time.- The origins of Stoicism in ancient Greece marked a significant shift in philosophical thinking and laid the foundation for a school of thought that would continue to influence thinkers and practitioners for centuries to come.
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