Stoicism is a school of Hellenistic philosophy that originated in Ancient Greece and Rome. It is based on the belief that the practice of virtue is enough to achieve eudaimonia, which is a well-lived, flourishing life. The philosophy teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions, and it holds that becoming a clear and unbiased thinker allows one to understand the universal reason (logos). The primary aspect of Stoicism involves improving the individuals ethical and moral well-being. The philosophy emphasizes that good lies in the state of the soul itself, in wisdom and self-control, and one must strive to be free of passions.
Stoicism comprises three parts: physics, logic, and ethics. Each of these parts includes a wide array of further topics nowadays dealt with separately. Logic, for example, includes not only formal logic but also questions now typically falling under the remit of philosophy of language, epistemology, and philosophy of mind. The purpose of philosophy, according to the Stoics, is to become virtuous, attain wisdom, and lead a good life. The goal of Stoicism is practical application, and it is a tool that people can use to become better in their craft, better friends, and better people.
Stoicism has a few central teachings, including the reminder of how unpredictable the world can be, how brief our moment of life is, how to be steadfast, strong, and in control of oneself, and that the source of our dissatisfaction lies in our impulsive dependency on our reflexive senses rather than logic. The philosophy is built for action, not endless debate, and it doesnt concern itself with complicated theories about the world but with helping people overcome destructive emotions and act on what can be acted upon.
Stoicism has influenced Christianity, as well as a number of major philosophical figures throughout the ages, and in the early 21st century, it saw a revival as a practical philosophy associated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and similar approaches.
