elpais.com
Resurgence of Roman Stoicism: Epictetus's "Manual" Finds Modern Audience
The rediscovery of Epictetus's "Manual," a work by a former Roman slave, reflects a surge in the popularity of Stoicism among modern influencers and readers seeking resilience in uncertain times, mirroring the historical context of its origins.
- What accounts for the resurgence of interest in Roman Stoicism, particularly Epictetus's teachings, in contemporary society?
- The popularity of Roman Stoicism is surging, evident in its presence in media and its adoption by influencers and celebrities. This renewed interest stems from the recent republication of Epictetus's "Manual," a work by a former slave, highlighting a philosophy once practiced by both emperors and slaves.
- How does the historical context of Epictetus's life—as a slave who became a prominent philosopher—contribute to the enduring appeal of his philosophy?
- Epictetus's philosophy, focusing on controlling one's internal responses rather than external events, offers solutions to modern anxieties. The republication of his "Manual" and other Stoic texts reflects a growing desire for coping mechanisms during times of uncertainty, mirroring the historical context in which Stoicism flourished.
- What are the potential long-term implications of this renewed interest in Stoic philosophy for individual well-being and societal perspectives on success and happiness?
- The enduring appeal of Stoicism suggests a growing need for resilience and self-mastery in a turbulent world. The contrast between Epictetus's humble origins and the widespread contemporary interest in his teachings underlines the timeless relevance of his philosophy, offering a framework for navigating challenges and finding inner peace.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the recent surge in popularity of Stoicism through the lens of Epictetus' newly published works. While acknowledging the contributions of Marcus Aurelius and other Stoics, the emphasis is clearly on Epictetus's manual and its relevance to modern life. This framing, while understandable given the focus on Epictetus's newly available works, could inadvertently overshadow the broader history and diverse interpretations of Stoicism.
Language Bias
The language used is mostly neutral and informative, with the exception of some potentially subjective phrasing like "estalló" (exploded) to describe the pandemic-era increase in interest in Stoicism. This word implies a sudden and dramatic rise, which might not accurately reflect a gradual increase in interest. A more neutral alternative would be "increased significantly".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Epictetus and his newly published works, while mentioning other Stoic philosophers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, but without delving into their specific contributions or comparing their philosophies in detail. This omission might limit the reader's understanding of the broader Stoic tradition and the nuances within different Stoic perspectives. The article's focus is understandable given its subject matter but a brief overview of how Epictetus' philosophy relates to other prominent Stoics would enhance the analysis.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the resurgence of Stoic philosophy, particularly the works of Epictetus, a former slave who became a renowned philosopher. This emphasizes the potential for social mobility and challenges traditional power structures, aligning with the SDG target of reducing inequalities. The popularity of Epictetus's teachings, accessible through recent publications, further promotes inclusivity and challenges societal hierarchies.