A new stoicism

A fascinating topic! The concept of a "new stoicism" has been gaining popularity in recent years, particularly among younger generations. While traditional Stoicism has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, a new stoicism is an evolving and adaptive approach that incorporates modern perspectives and practices. Here are some key aspects of a new stoicism:

  1. Inclusivity: A new stoicism is more inclusive, recognizing that Stoicism was originally a philosophy of the elite, and that its principles can be applied by people from all walks of life.
  2. Practicality: This new approach focuses on practical, actionable advice for everyday life, rather than just theoretical discussions. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and taking small, incremental steps towards personal growth.
  3. Emotional intelligence: A new stoicism places a strong emphasis on emotional intelligence, recognizing that emotions are a natural part of the human experience. It encourages individuals to develop self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy.
  4. Mindfulness: This approach incorporates mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, to help individuals cultivate a greater sense of awareness and presence.
  5. Resilience: A new stoicism emphasizes the importance of building resilience, which involves developing coping strategies and learning to adapt to adversity.
  6. Community: This new approach recognizes the value of community and encourages individuals to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar values and goals.
  7. Intersectionality: A new stoicism acknowledges the importance of intersectionality, recognizing that individuals' experiences are shaped by multiple factors, including race, gender, sexuality, class, and ability.
  8. Critique of privilege: This approach acknowledges the historical and ongoing impact of privilege and oppression, and encourages individuals to engage in self-reflection and anti-oppressive practices.
  9. Focus on well-being: A new stoicism prioritizes well-being, recognizing that individuals' well-being is closely tied to their mental and physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
  10. Evolutionary: This approach is open to evolution and adaptation, recognizing that Stoicism is not a fixed or static philosophy, but rather a living, breathing tradition that can evolve and grow over time.

Some notable figures associated with the new stoicism include:

  1. Ryan Holiday: Author of "The Obstacle Is the Way" and "Ego Is the Enemy," Holiday is a prominent advocate for a modern, practical approach to Stoicism.
  2. Tim Ferriss: Entrepreneur and author, Ferriss has interviewed numerous Stoicism experts and practitioners on his podcast, exploring the application of Stoic principles in modern life.
  3. Jordan Peterson: A Canadian clinical psychologist and professor, Peterson has written extensively on the importance of Stoicism and its relevance to modern life.
  4. Aubrey Marcus: Founder of Onnit, a health and wellness company, Marcus has spoken about the importance of Stoicism in his own life and has written about its application in modern times.

These individuals, along with many others, are helping to shape the new stoicism, making it more accessible, inclusive, and relevant to contemporary life.