Stoicism Archives

Painting by Edvard Munch with a young ill woman seated, looking out a window during spring, accompanied by a woman providing her comfort.

("Spring" by Edvard Munch, 1889)

Should We Take Comfort in the Knowledge Others Have it Worse?

October 21, 2021October 21, 2021 21 min read Sam Woolfe Buddhism, Consolation, Schopenhauer, Stoicism, Suffering

While the phrase “It could be worse” can provide us comfort, it may lead to less effective and less ethical forms of consolation.

Garry Gergich is the true Stoic on Parks and Rec, exemplifying Stoicism.

Parks and Rec expounds a great deal upon the teachings of Stoicism, but it is Garry Gergich—not Ron Swanson—who embodies the Stoic ideals. (Image: NBC)

Garry Gergich the Stoic

June 28, 2021January 1, 2022 15 min read Matthew Downhour Ancient Wisdom, Friendship, Stoicism

Parks and Rec expounds a great deal upon the teachings of Stoicism, but it is Garry Gergich—not Ron Swanson—who embodies the Stoic ideals.

(Ibrahim Rifath)

Wanderlust Is a Vice, Not a Virtue

April 15, 2019June 1, 2020 12 min read Christopher Porzenheim Ancient Wisdom, Essential Reading, Nostalgia, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Stoicism

Critiques of wanderlust by Ralph Waldo Emerson and the Stoics have far-reaching consequences for our ability to lead meaningful lives.

(Brooke Cagle)

You’re Unhappy Because You Focus on What You Can’t Control

November 10, 2018June 1, 2020 6 min read Massimo Pigliucci Ancient Wisdom, Buddhism, Emotional Well-being, Stoicism

If you succeed in shifting your goals internally, you’ll be happier, because what other people do is largely beyond your control.

(Clem Onojeghuo)

How CBT Strengthens Political Life and Untruths That Weaken It

November 5, 2018March 27, 2021 21 min read Jeffrey Howard Ancient Wisdom, Emotional Well-being, Polarization, Politics, Stoicism

Many in the US are experiencing emotional unwellness, while our foundational institutions are rattling. CBT can help with both.

(Toa Heftiba)

News-fatigued? Read Stoic Philosophy and Poetry Instead

October 10, 2018April 17, 2021 7 min read Rachel Hadas Ancient Wisdom, Politics, Stoicism

Reading the news feels awful but ignoring it doesn’t feel right either. A stoic mindset shields us from catastrophy—and inspires action.