The Value of Stoicism in a Consumer Society.
Sometimes going against the grain is just what you need.
Good Morning Everybody
If you’re not into living a better life and don’t want tips on navigating today’s consumer culture, I wouldn’t read any further.
Today I want to talk about how the old philosophy of stoicism is perfect for dealing with modern-day problems. The wise words of Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and others have helped millions of people worldwide find ways to live a better life in a society where consumerism runs rampant.
What is Stoicism and its inherent value?
Stoicism is a school of Hellenistic philosophy founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BC. Stoicism is predominantly a philosophy of personal ethics informed by its system of logic and its views on the natural world.
Value:According to its teachings, as social beings, the path to happiness for humans is found in accepting this moment as it presents itself, by not allowing oneself to be controlled by the desire for things that are out of one's control (external), and by working towards one's goals without allowing oneself to be overcome by fear or excessive caution.
The Stoics are especially known for teaching that "virtue" consists in a "wise and constant pursuit" of one's own "happiness" (eudaimonia) and not in external things.
What are the benefits of Practicing Stoicism in Today’s Consumer Society?
The benefits of practicing stoicism are many. First, stoicism can help us be less reactive to what happens in our lives. It teaches us how to avoid getting angry or upset about what happens externally, allowing us to focus on what we can control. In addition, it helps us find joy in all aspects of life and find peace in the present moment.
Practicing stoicism means living with virtue and wisdom while living in harmony with nature and the universe. Stoics believe that all good things happen for a reason. So when things don’t go their way, stoics use this as an opportunity to learn and improve.
This plays well into living in a consumer society. It teaches how to let go of all external events. For example, allowing us to not care about buying everything we see our friends and people on the internet buying. The not caring part comes from accepting that possessions do not define us in any way.
I hope everyone enjoyed today’s article and can take something valuable away from it in today’s consumer society and apply it to their life. The most significant piece of wisdom to take away from today’s article is this:
Focus on what you can control. Let go of what you can’t
Have a great day, and remember to live in the moment.
