What is Fatalism in Stoicism
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that originated in Greece and developed during the Hellenistic period. One of the main characteristics of Stoicism is the belief that we must accept and live in accordance with nature and destiny. Within this philosophy, fatalism plays an important role, as it is based on the idea that everything that happens in our lives is already predestined and we cannot do anything to change it.
The stoic view of destiny
The Stoics believed that destiny is governed by a higher force, which they called the Logos. This force is responsible for determining all events that occur in the universe, including individual actions and choices. According to the Stoics, destiny is a rational and fair order, and we must accept it without question.
For the Stoics, destiny is not something that is beyond our control, but rather something that is part of ourselves. They believed that each individual possesses a share of power to act in accordance with destiny and live in harmony with it. However, they also recognized that there are limitations to our power to act, and that not everything is within our control.
The role of fatalism in Stoicism
Fatalism is a logical consequence of the Stoic view of destiny. The Stoics believed that everything that happens in our lives is already predestined, and that we can do nothing to change it. This fatalistic view can be interpreted as a form of resignation in the face of life's events, but the Stoics believed that accepting fate does not mean being passive or indifferent.
For Stoics, accepting destiny means recognizing that we cannot control all external circumstances, but we can control our own attitudes and reactions to them. They believed that true freedom lies in accepting what we cannot change and focusing our efforts on what is within our control.
The difference between fatalism and determinism
Although fatalism and determinism are related concepts, they are not the same thing. Determinism is the idea that all events are caused by previous events, that is, everything that happens is the result of a causal chain that goes back to the beginning of the universe. Fatalism, in turn, is the idea that everything that happens is already predestined, regardless of previous causes.
In Stoicism, fatalism is a form of determinism, as it is believed that destiny is determined by a rational and just order. However, the Stoics also recognized the importance of free will and the ability to act according to destiny.
The relationship between fatalism and Stoic ethics
For the Stoics, fatalism is closely linked to ethics. They believed that we must live in accordance with nature and destiny, and that this implies acting in accordance with ethical principles. According to the Stoics, virtue is the only true good and the only thing that is under our control.
For the Stoics, acceptance of destiny does not mean resignation or passivity, but rather the search for moral excellence. They believed that we must act in accordance with reason and virtue, regardless of external circumstances. Fatalism, in this sense, is a way of recognizing that we cannot control everything, but we can control our own attitudes and choices.
Criticisms of fatalism in Stoicism
Fatalism in Stoicism is not a consensual view and has been the target of criticism throughout history. Some philosophers argue that fatalism can lead to inaction and a lack of responsibility, because if everything is already predestined, there is no reason to act or make decisions.
Another criticism of fatalism is that it can lead to resignation in the face of injustice and suffering in the world. If everything that happens is already predestined, there is no reason to fight against inequalities and seek justice.
Final considerations
Fatalism in Stoicism is a complex view that involves acceptance of fate and the pursuit of moral excellence. The Stoics believed that we should live in accordance with nature and destiny, acting according to ethical principles, even in the face of external circumstances.
Although the fatalism in Stoicism has been criticized, it also offers an interesting perspective on how to deal with life's adversities. Accepting destiny does not mean being passive or indifferent, but rather recognizing that not everything is under our control and focusing our efforts on what we can control: our own attitudes and choices.
