Question

Stoics, as a rule, shouldn't be psychologically affected by what they don't have any control over. But what kind of control are we talking about? I do not have any control over the weather, therefore I shouldn't lose my patience when it starts raining.

However, one might say that I do not have any control over someone else's actions. On the other hand, we can still influence it by our reaction to it. Is that under our control?

Another example could be, I don't like the place I live in. Would stoicism advocate being patient and work on moving to a better place without complaining in the meantime?

Answer 1

Stoic philosophy emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between what is within our control—our actions and reactions—and what is not, like the actions of others and external events. Stoicism teaches that one should focus on personal agency and rationality to maintain well-being and equanimity in the face of life's inevitable challenges.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Stoics preached a form of ethical philosophy where the distinction between what we can and cannot control is fundamental. They advocated for a focus on our own actions and reactions, which are within our sphere of control, and to maintain rationality and composure in the face of external events, which are not. Therefore, one might not control another's actions directly, but can certainly control their reactions to them. If you don't like where you live, a Stoic would advise working patiently towards moving to a better place, without letting discontentment disturb your peace of mind.

Essentially, Stoicism places emphasis on personal control and the cultivation of an inner strength that enables one to endure life's challenges with equanimity. This philosophy extends to one's reaction to stressors, promoting a sense of personal agency that is linked to well-being. Having an internal locus of control, according to research, is associated with various favorable outcomes including better health and lower reactivity to stress (Diehl & Hay, 2010; Infurna & Gerstorf, 2014).

In line with Stoic thought, one exerts control over personal dispositions and attitudes, thus making peace with the natural order and accepting the concept of fate. The approach of accepting and working within the constraints of what cannot be changed aligns closely with the Stoic belief in engaging harmoniously with the world rather than striving against it unnecessarily.