Stoicism in the Face of Change: How Ancient Philosophy Can Guide Us Through Technological, Political, and Environmental Shifts
- Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
- Oct 31, 2024
- 5 min read
In today’s world, uncertainty and rapid change are the norms. From the increasing prominence of artificial intelligence (AI) to global political tensions like the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, many people feel overwhelmed by the pace of evolution in technology, politics, and environmental threats. The 2024 U.S. Presidential elections, rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and the challenges posed by climate change add further layers of anxiety. In this atmosphere of instability, many find themselves controlled by fear rather than exercising self-control, critical thinking, and rationality. Stoicism, a philosophy born over 2,000 years ago, offers a timeless approach to navigating these turbulent times.
Understanding Stoicism
Stoicism was founded by Zeno of Citium around 300 BCE and later developed by thinkers such as Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius. Its primary tenet is that we cannot control external events but can control our reactions to them. According to the Stoic worldview, virtue—defined by wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance—is the only true good, while external events are neutral until we assign value to them.
This philosophy is particularly relevant today, when global transformations seem to be outpacing our ability to cope. The Stoic response to such changes encourages focusing on what we can control: our thoughts, actions, and attitudes. It asks us to embrace reality with equanimity, allowing us to find peace even in chaotic times.
The Fear of Technological Change: Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a significant driver of modern change, prompting both excitement and fear. Many fear job displacement, loss of privacy, and the potential for AI to surpass human control. However, Stoicism teaches that fear of the unknown—like the future of AI—is unproductive. What we fear may or may not happen, and our energy is better spent preparing for how to respond to such challenges than fretting over their potential.
As Ryan Holiday, a modern-day Stoic and author of The Obstacle Is the Way (2014), argues, "We can’t change what happens, but we can always choose how we respond." This aligns with the Stoic principle of controlling our reactions rather than being controlled by fear. Instead of succumbing to anxiety about AI, we can learn to adapt, find new ways to apply human creativity, and see technology as a tool to be mastered rather than feared.
Political Uncertainty: The 2024 U.S. Presidential Elections
The 2024 U.S. Presidential elections are another source of unease for many, driven by polarized political discourse, misinformation, and concerns over the future of democracy within our Republic. Fear and anger dominate political conversations, leaving many people feeling powerless in the face of what they perceive as an unstoppable tide of division.
Stoicism can provide an antidote to this political anxiety. Marcus Aurelius, in his Meditations, wrote, "You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength" (Aurelius, 2002, p. 113). Rather than becoming consumed by political outcomes that are beyond individual control, Stoicism encourages citizens to focus on their own values and how they contribute to the collective good. By engaging in civil discourse, voting thoughtfully, and taking personal responsibility for our actions, we can influence political outcomes in small but meaningful ways without being dominated by fear.
Global Conflict: Ukraine-Russia War and Middle East Tensions
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, along with rising tensions involving Hezbollah, Iran, and other Middle Eastern actors, creates a heightened sense of insecurity in global affairs. These events remind us that geopolitical realities are beyond the control of most individuals. Fear of war and instability, however, can paralyze us.
The Stoic approach to such crises focuses on maintaining rationality and perspective. Seneca, one of the most famous Stoics, wrote, "We suffer more in imagination than in reality" (Seneca, 2010, p. 45). Stoicism teaches that catastrophizing about world events only increases our suffering. Instead, we should maintain perspective: these events are part of the natural ebb and flow of history. We cannot control them, but we can control how we respond—by staying informed, helping those in need, and remaining grounded in our values.
Environmental Anxiety: Climate Change and Its Impact
Environmental degradation and climate change represent another major source of modern anxiety. As wildfires, hurricanes, and rising sea levels impact communities around the world, many feel despair and helplessness.
Again, Stoicism reminds us that while we cannot control the planet’s climate, we can control our actions. Marcus Aurelius advised, "Do what you can, with what you have, where you are" (Aurelius, 2002, p. 89). This wisdom applies directly to the environmental crisis. We may not be able to singlehandedly stop climate change, but we can take steps to reduce our own environmental impact and advocate for policies that promote sustainability.
Holiday, drawing from the Stoics in his book Stillness is the Key (2019), emphasizes the need for calm, reflective action in times of chaos. He writes, "The less we focus on the things outside our control, the more powerful we become" (Holiday, 2019, p. 122). This insight is crucial for dealing with environmental anxiety. Instead of being paralyzed by the enormity of the problem, Stoicism encourages us to act mindfully and responsibly in our sphere of influence.
Communication in an Age of Distrust
In an age of evolving communication styles and increasing distrust—whether from misinformation on social media or changing communication methods due to remote work—many people feel disconnected and isolated. Miscommunication is rampant, and the pace of change in how we interact with one another can be disorienting.
The Stoic principle of rational discourse offers a solution here. Epictetus, in his Discourses, emphasizes the importance of calm, thoughtful dialogue, even in the face of disagreement: "Keep your intention pure and free from ambiguity" (Epictetus, 1983, p. 90). By applying Stoic principles to our communication, we can engage in more meaningful conversations, avoid reacting emotionally, and build stronger, more honest relationships, even in times of rapid change.
Conclusion: Embrace Stoic Strength in Times of Change
Whether grappling with the rise of AI, navigating political divisions, or facing global conflicts, the ancient philosophy of Stoicism provides a powerful framework for dealing with modern anxieties. As Ryan Holiday reminds us in The Daily Stoic (2016), "You don’t control the situation, but you control yourself." This profound yet simple truth is the key to thriving in a world where change is the only constant. By focusing on self-control, critical thinking, and rational action, we can face the uncertainties of the modern world with strength and resilience, just as the Stoics would.
References
Aurelius, M. (2002). Meditations. Penguin Classics.Epictetus. (1983). The Discourses. Harvard University Press.Holiday, R. (2014). The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph. Penguin Books.Holiday, R. (2016). The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living. Penguin Books.Holiday, R. (2019). Stillness is the Key. Penguin Books.Seneca. (2010). Letters from a Stoic. Penguin Classics.
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