What is Asceticism in Stoicism
Asceticism in Stoicism is a philosophical practice that seeks self-sufficiency and serenity through the control of passions and desires. This philosophical current, originating in Ancient Greece, has as its main objective to achieve wisdom and virtue, through the mastery of reason and the acceptance of external events. Asceticism in Stoicism is a way of life that seeks inner tranquility and freedom from emotional disturbances.
Origins of Stoicism
Stoicism began in the XNUMXrd century BC, with Zeno of Citium, a Greek philosopher who founded the Stoic school in Athens. Stoic philosophy was influenced by other philosophical currents, such as skepticism and ancient stoicism. The Stoics believed that reason was the only source of true knowledge and that virtue was the only supreme good. They argued that the way to happiness and tranquility was to live in accordance with nature and accept external events as inevitable.
Principles of Asceticism in Stoicism
In asceticism in Stoicism, there are some fundamental principles that guide philosophical practice. The first principle is the recognition that the only true good is virtue, that is, the domain of reason and the practice of moral virtues. The Stoics believed that virtue was the only thing that was under the control of the individual, while all other things were subject to fate and the will of the gods.
The second principle is the acceptance of external events as inevitable and the search for inner tranquility through the control of passions and desires. The Stoics believed that negative emotions, such as fear, anger and sadness, were caused by attachment to external things and that freedom from these emotions was possible through mastery of reason.
Ascetic Exercises in Stoicism
In asceticism in Stoicism, there are several exercises that can be practiced to develop inner serenity and self-sufficiency. One of the best-known exercises is “premeditatio malorum”, which consists of anticipating and imagining the worst possible scenarios, in order to be prepared to deal with them in a calm and rational way.
Another important exercise is “death contemplation”, which consists of reflecting on the finiteness of life and the inevitability of death, in order to value the present and live in accordance with nature. Furthermore, the Stoics also practiced “mindfulness,” which consists of being present in the present moment and observing thoughts and emotions without judgment.
Impact of Asceticism on Stoicism
Asceticism in Stoicism has had a major impact on Western philosophy and culture. The search for self-sufficiency and inner serenity has influenced several philosophical and religious currents throughout history, such as Christianity, Buddhism and existentialism. Furthermore, the principles of Stoicism, such as mastery of reason and acceptance of external events, continue to be relevant today, especially in an increasingly volatile and uncertain world.
Criticisms of Asceticism in Stoicism
Despite its contributions to philosophy and culture, asceticism in Stoicism has also received criticism over the centuries. Some philosophers argue that the search for self-sufficiency and inner serenity can lead to a denial of emotions and a lack of empathy for others. Furthermore, the emphasis on accepting external events as inevitable can be interpreted as a form of conformity and resignation in the face of injustice and oppression.
Conclusion
Asceticism in Stoicism is a philosophical practice that seeks self-sufficiency and serenity through the control of passions and desires. Originating in Ancient Greece, Stoicism has influenced several philosophical and religious currents throughout history. Despite its contributions, asceticism in Stoicism has also received criticism, particularly in relation to the denial of emotions and the acceptance of external events as inevitable. However, the principles of Stoicism continue to be relevant today, especially in an increasingly volatile and uncertain world.
