The study of nature in Stoicism is an area of ​​knowledge that seeks to understand the order and laws that govern the universe. The Stoics believed that nature was governed by a divine reason, and that humans should live in harmony with this order. In this glossary, we will explore the main concepts and ideas related to the study of nature in Stoicism, providing a comprehensive and detailed overview of the subject.

1. Stoic Cosmology

Stoic cosmology is the study of the structure and organization of the universe according to Stoic principles. The Stoics believed that the universe was governed by a divine reason, which they called the Logos. According to this view, the universe is an interconnected whole, in which everything is interconnected and influences everything else. Stoic cosmology also emphasizes the idea that the universe is cyclical, going through periods of creation and destruction.

2. Stoic Physics

Stoic physics is the study of the natural laws that govern the functioning of the universe. The Stoics believed that everything that happens in the universe is determined by natural laws, and that human beings must seek to understand and live in accordance with these laws. According to Stoic physics, all things are composed of matter, which is governed by principles such as causality and necessity. Furthermore, the Stoics believed in the existence of an active principle, called pneuma, which permeates the entire universe.

3. Stoic Ethics

Stoic ethics is the study of the principles and values ​​that should guide human conduct. The Stoics believed that virtue is the only true good, and that all other things are indifferent. According to this view, virtue consists of living in accordance with the divine reason that governs the universe, seeking moral excellence and acting in accordance with the principles of justice, courage, temperance and wisdom. Stoic ethics also emphasize the importance of self-mastery and acceptance of external circumstances.

4. Stoic Logic

Stoic logic is the study of the principles and methods of correct thinking. The Stoics believed that reason is the most important human faculty, and that human beings must seek to develop and correctly use this faculty. Stoic logic includes the study of formal logic, which deals with the rules of correct thought, and material logic, which deals with the study of concepts and propositions. Furthermore, the Stoics developed techniques of argumentation and logical analysis, which aimed to assist in the search for truth and in overcoming disturbing emotions.

5. Stoic Determinism

Stoic determinism is the idea that everything that happens in the universe is determined by natural laws, and that humans do not have free will. According to this view, all human actions are caused by previous events, and there is no room for freedom of choice. The Stoics believed that although we cannot control external circumstances, we can control our reactions to them, and that virtue consists in acting in accordance with divine reason, regardless of the circumstances.

6. Stoic Providence

Stoic providence is the belief that the universe is governed by a divine reason, which cares for all things and that everything that happens in the universe is for good. According to this view, even things that seem bad or unfair are part of a greater plan and contribute to the good of the whole. The Stoics believed that we should trust in divine providence and accept circumstances as they are, seeking to live in accordance with divine reason and acting virtuously.

7. Human Nature

Human nature in Stoicism is seen as an integral part of nature as a whole. The Stoics believed that human beings possess a divine spark, which is reason, and that they should seek to live in accordance with that reason. According to this view, human nature is essentially rational and social, and human beings must seek to develop their rational faculties and live in harmony with other human beings and with the universe as a whole.

8. Living According to Nature

Living in accordance with nature in Stoicism means living in harmony with the divine order that governs the universe. The Stoics believed that we should accept circumstances as they are and seek to live in accordance with divine reason, acting virtuously and striving for moral excellence. Living in accordance with nature also implies accepting the impermanence and transience of things, and not becoming attached to pleasures and material riches.

9. Indifference to External Things

Indifference to external things is a fundamental principle in Stoicism. The Stoics believed that all external things, such as riches, pleasures and honors, are indifferent and that the only true good is virtue. According to this view, we must seek to develop moral excellence and act in accordance with the principles of justice, courage, temperance and wisdom, regardless of external circumstances. Indifference to external things also implies not letting yourself be affected by disturbing emotions and accepting circumstances as they are.

10. Acceptance of Circumstances

Acceptance of circumstances is an important principle in Stoicism. The Stoics believed that we should accept circumstances as they are and seek to live in accordance with divine reason, regardless of the difficulties and adversities we may face. According to this view, we cannot control external circumstances, but we can control our reactions to them. Acceptance of circumstances also implies not getting attached to material things and seeking inner tranquility.

11. Inner Tranquility

Inner tranquility is a state of mind desired by Stoics. The Stoics believed that inner tranquility is achieved when we live in accordance with divine reason and act virtuously regardless of external circumstances. According to this view, inner tranquility does not depend on external things, but on our attitude towards them. The search for inner tranquility involves developing self-control, overcoming disturbing emotions, and accepting circumstances as they are.

12. Practice of Ataraxia

The practice of ataraxia is an important goal in Stoicism. Ataraxia is a state of imperturbability and inner serenity, which is achieved when we live in accordance with divine reason and act virtuously. According to the Stoics, the practice of ataraxia involves developing self-mastery, overcoming disturbing emotions, and accepting circumstances as they are. Ataraxia is seen as a state of inner peace and balance, in which we are not affected by the vicissitudes of life.

13. Influence of Stoicism on Modern Philosophy

Stoicism has had a great influence on modern philosophy. Many philosophers, such as Descartes, Spinoza, and Kant, were influenced by the principles and ideas of Stoicism. Stoicism also influenced other areas of knowledge, such as psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The emphasis on reason, virtue and accepting circumstances as they are are principles that are still relevant today. The study of nature in Stoicism continues to be an area of ​​interest and research, which helps us better understand the world we live in and seek a more virtuous and meaningful life.