Stoicism, one of the most prominent ancient philosophies, has deep roots in the teachings of Socrates.
While Stoicism as a formal school of thought was founded by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BCE, its core principles are undeniably influenced by Socratic philosophy.
Understanding the connection between Stoicism and Socrates provides a clearer view of how Stoic teachings evolved and how Socratic ideas continue to shape modern Stoic thought.
Socratic Influence on Stoicism
Socrates (469–399 BCE), the classical Greek philosopher known for his method of inquiry and relentless pursuit of truth, left an indelible mark on Stoic philosophy.
He didn’t leave behind any written works, but his ideas were recorded by his disciples, particularly Plato and Xenophon.
Socratic themes such as virtue, wisdom, and self-discipline became foundational elements in Stoicism.
Virtue is the Highest Good
One of the most prominent Socratic ideas embraced by the Stoics is the concept that virtue is the highest good.
Socrates taught that a life of virtue, guided by wisdom and moral excellence, was the key to happiness.
In the same vein, Stoicism asserts that virtue—comprising wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance—is the only true good in life.
External things like wealth, fame, and pleasure are seen as indifferent to a virtuous life.
For Socrates, virtue was closely tied to knowledge.
To be truly virtuous, one must possess the knowledge of what is right and good.
The Stoics expanded on this by teaching that virtue alone is sufficient for a good life, regardless of one’s circumstances.
The Socratic Method and Stoic Rationality
The Socratic method—a form of cooperative dialogue where questions and answers are used to stimulate critical thinking—was integral to how Socrates engaged with his peers.
He believed in questioning assumptions, challenging beliefs, and uncovering the truth through reason.
The Stoics valued rationality above all else.
They believed that human beings, as rational creatures, should use logic and reason to navigate life.
By challenging emotions like fear, anger, and desire, and replacing them with rational thought, the Stoics sought to achieve emotional equilibrium.
This reliance on logic and questioning traces back to the Socratic tradition, where reason was the tool for attaining wisdom and understanding.
Mastery of Self
Socrates often emphasized the importance of self-control and mastery over one’s desires and impulses.
In his view, the pursuit of base pleasures or indulgence in unnecessary desires leads to a disordered soul.
True happiness comes from mastering oneself.
The Stoics, especially Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, echoed this idea, teaching that self-control is one of the key components of a virtuous life.
Stoics practiced self-discipline and self-mastery in their quest to live in accordance with nature, by controlling impulses and focusing on what they could control, a direct reflection of Socratic values.
The Stoic Approach to Death: Echoes of Socrates
Socrates’ attitude toward death had a profound impact on Stoic philosophy.
Socrates famously faced his own death with calm and acceptance, stating that death is either a dreamless sleep or a transition to another form of existence.
This fearless acceptance of mortality became a cornerstone of Stoicism.
The Stoic practice of memento mori—regularly contemplating death as a way of living life fully—can be traced back to Socratic thought.
For the Stoics, death is a natural part of life and should not be feared.
By accepting the impermanence of life, one can focus on living virtuously, in the present moment, without being distracted by fear of the unknown.
Key Stoic Philosophers and Their Socratic Connection
Several key Stoic philosophers were deeply inspired by Socratic teachings:
Zeno of Citium
The founder of Stoicism, Zeno, was influenced by Cynicism, a school of thought heavily indebted to Socratic philosophy.
Zeno’s early education involved studying under Crates of Thebes, a Cynic philosopher, whose teachings of simplicity, virtue, and self-sufficiency were inspired by Socratic values.
Zeno’s adaptation of Socratic ideas about virtue and self-discipline became the bedrock of Stoicism.
Epictetus
Epictetus, one of the most famous Roman Stoics, constantly referred to Socrates as a model of moral integrity and wisdom.
In his “Discourses,” Epictetus frequently mentions Socrates as a prime example of someone who understood the importance of controlling what is within one’s power while remaining indifferent to external outcomes.
Marcus Aurelius
The Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius held Socrates in high regard.
In his famous work “Meditations,” Marcus Aurelius reflects on the teachings of Socrates, often contemplating his calm and rational approach to life’s challenges.
Socrates’ example of accepting hardship with grace and maintaining virtue regardless of external circumstances deeply resonated with Marcus.
Differences Between Stoicism and Socratic Philosophy
While Stoicism is deeply influenced by Socratic philosophy, there are key differences between the two schools of thought:
The Role of Emotions
Socrates viewed emotions as a part of the human experience but believed they should be managed through reason.
The Stoics, on the other hand, took a stricter approach, advocating for the complete control of emotions, teaching that negative emotions like anger, fear, and jealousy are destructive and irrational.
Determinism
Stoicism incorporates a strong belief in determinism—the idea that everything in the universe is preordained and happens according to a divine plan.
While Socrates often spoke of the will of the gods, his philosophy focused more on ethical inquiry and less on the deterministic view of the universe.
The Enduring Legacy of Socrates in Stoicism
Socrates may not have been a Stoic, but his teachings laid the groundwork for much of Stoic philosophy.
His ideas on virtue, rational inquiry, self-discipline, and facing death with equanimity continue to resonate through Stoicism today.
For those interested in living a life of virtue and reason, Socrates serves as a timeless model of philosophical inquiry.
By understanding his influence on Stoic thought, we can better appreciate the richness of both Socratic and Stoic philosophy and how they guide us toward a life of wisdom, resilience, and inner peace.