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Can stoicism survive in a modern era where the line between good and bad is often blurred?

Malorie O'Coskerry

Stoicism is a philosophical school of thought that is rooted in ancient Greece and emphasizes personal ethics and self-control. Its core teachings include the belief that virtuous living is the key to happiness, that people should accept things that are beyond their control, and that emotions should be kept in check to avoid making irrational decisions.

The question of whether stoicism can survive in the modern era is an interesting one that requires a nuanced answer. On the one hand, many of the core teachings of stoicism are still relevant and applicable today. In our fast-paced and often chaotic world, the idea of accepting things that are beyond our control can be a powerful way to avoid becoming overwhelmed by stress and anxiety. Similarly, the idea of focusing on virtuous living and personal ethics can be a helpful way to navigate the complexity of modern life and make difficult decisions.

On the other hand, it is true that we live in an era where the line between good and bad is often blurred. In a world where dishonesty, corruption, and greed are common, it can be challenging to maintain a commitment to virtuous living and ethical behavior. Similarly, the constant barrage of news and social media can make it difficult to stay centered and focused, leading to an increase in emotional volatility and irrational behavior.

Despite these challenges, however, I believe that stoicism can indeed survive in the modern era, and that it may be more relevant and needed now than ever before. In a world where we are bombarded by information and constantly exposed to new ideas and perspectives, the teachings of stoicism can act as a guiding light, helping us to stay centered and focused in the face of chaos and uncertainty.

To do this, we must take a proactive approach to living a stoic life. This may involve setting clear boundaries and limits on the amount of news and social media we consume, in order to avoid becoming overwhelmed by the constant flood of information. It may also involve adopting practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and journaling, which can help to cultivate greater self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Ultimately, the key to living a stoic life in the modern era is to stay committed to our values and principles, even in the face of adversity. By maintaining a sense of purpose and direction, and by cultivating the skills of self-control and discipline, we can navigate the complexities of modern life and emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side. So yes, stoicism can indeed survive in the modern era, and may even be more relevant and needed now than ever before.