What is Practical Wisdom in Stoicism
Practical wisdom, also known as moral wisdom or ethical wisdom, is a fundamental concept in Stoicism. This ancient philosophy, which had its peak in Greece and Rome, seeks to provide guidance for a virtuous and happy life. Practical wisdom is considered one of the main Stoic virtues and is seen as the key to achieving inner tranquility and peace of mind.
Origin and Influences
Stoicism had its roots in ancient Greece, in the XNUMXrd century BC, with Zeno of Citium as its founder. However, it was with Roman Stoic philosophers, such as Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, that this philosophy gained prominence and profoundly influenced Western thought. Practical wisdom in Stoicism was developed as a response to the search for a virtuous life in harmony with nature.
Definition and Meaning
Practical wisdom in Stoicism can be defined as the ability to discern what is morally right and act in accordance with that discernment. It is the ability to apply Stoic ethical principles in everyday life, dealing with life's adversities and challenges in a virtuous way. Practical wisdom involves the development of virtues such as courage, temperance, justice and wisdom.
Principles and Teachings
In Stoicism, practical wisdom is based on some fundamental principles. One is the recognition that some things are within our control, while others are beyond our reach. The Stoics believed that we should focus only on what is in our power, such as our opinions, desires, and actions, and calmly accept that which we cannot control, such as external events and the actions of other people.
Another important principle is the development of an attitude of indifference towards external things. The Stoics believed that happiness does not depend on material possessions or external circumstances, but rather on our attitude towards them. Therefore, practical wisdom involves cultivating a calm and serene mind regardless of external circumstances.
Application Examples
The practical wisdom in Stoicism can be applied to many areas of life. For example, at work, we can apply Stoic principles to deal with stressful situations or interpersonal conflicts. By recognizing that we cannot control the actions of others, we can focus on our own attitudes and behaviors, seeking to act in a fair and virtuous way.
On a personal level, practical wisdom can help us deal with negative emotions, such as anger and fear. By recognizing that these emotions are the result of our own judgments and perceptions, we can question these judgments and adopt a calmer, more balanced perspective.
Benefits and Importance
The practical wisdom in Stoicism offers a number of benefits to those who practice it. It helps us develop greater emotional resilience, allowing us to deal more effectively with life's difficulties and challenges. Furthermore, practical wisdom helps us cultivate healthier and more harmonious relationships, as it allows us to act fairly and virtuously in our interactions with others.
The importance of practical wisdom in Stoicism also lies in the fact that it helps us find a deeper and more meaningful meaning in life. By focusing on developing virtues like courage, temperance, and justice, we can create a life that is aligned with our highest values and purposes.
Conclusion
Practical wisdom in Stoicism is a powerful concept that invites us to live according to ethical principles and pursue virtue in all areas of life. By applying Stoic teachings in our daily lives, we can achieve greater inner tranquility and a fuller, more meaningful life. Practical wisdom helps us develop greater emotional resilience, cultivate healthy relationships and find a deeper meaning in our existence.
