Stoic virtues can enhance our emotional wellbeing from "summary" of Stoic Romanticism and the Ethics of Emotion by Jacob Risinger
The Stoics believed that the cultivation of certain virtues could lead to emotional wellbeing. These virtues, including wisdom, courage, justice, and moderation, were seen as essential for living a good life and achieving inner peace. By practicing these virtues, individuals could better navigate the challenges and upheavals of life, allowing them to maintain a sense of equanimity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Wisdom was considered the cornerstone of Stoic ethics, as it involved the ability to see things as they truly are and to make sound judgments based on reason. By cultivating wisdom, individuals could gain a better understanding of themselves and the world around them, leading to greater emotional clarity and insight. This, in turn, could help them to better manage their emotions and respond to challenging situations with greater composure and self-control.
Courage was another key virtue in Stoic philosophy, as it involved the willingness to face one's fears and confront difficult circumstances with strength and resolve. By developing courage, individuals could overcome obstacles and setbacks with grace and fortitude, rather than being overwhelmed by fear or anxiety. This inner strength and resilience could help them to weather the storms of life and emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.
Justice was also seen as a crucial virtue in Stoic ethics, as it involved treating others with fairness, kindness, and compassion. By cultivating a sense of justice, individuals could foster healthy relationships with others and contribute to the greater good of society. This, in turn, could lead to a sense of connectedness and belonging, which is essential for emotional wellbeing and fulfillment.
Finally, moderation was considered a vital virtue in Stoic philosophy, as it involved finding a balance in all things and avoiding extremes of behavior or emotion. By practicing moderation, individuals could avoid the pitfalls of excess and indulgence, leading to greater emotional stability and self-discipline. This, in turn, could help them to lead a more harmonious and balanced life, free from the tumultuous swings of emotion that can undermine inner peace and wellbeing.
In summary, the Stoics believed that the cultivation of virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and moderation could enhance emotional wellbeing by fostering inner peace, resilience, and self-control. By embodying these virtues in their daily lives, individuals could navigate the ups and downs of life with greater ease and grace, leading to a deeper sense of fulfillment and contentment.
