Stoicism and Existentialism are two influential schools of thought that offer different approaches to understanding life, purpose, and human existence.
While Stoicism is rooted in ancient Greek philosophy and emphasizes reason, virtue, and the acceptance of fate, Existentialism, emerging from 19th and 20th-century thinkers like Søren Kierkegaard, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Albert Camus, focuses on individual freedom, the search for meaning, and the experience of existential anxiety in an indifferent universe.
In this article, we’ll explore the key principles of Stoicism and Existentialism, compare how each philosophy addresses life’s challenges, and provide actionable insights for those seeking to apply these frameworks in their own lives.
What is Stoicism?
Stoicism was founded in the early 3rd century BCE by Zeno of Citium.
The philosophy teaches that inner peace and happiness can be achieved through reason, self-discipline, and acceptance of what is beyond our control.
Stoics believe that virtue is the highest good and that by focusing on what we can control—our thoughts and actions—we can live a fulfilled life, regardless of external circumstances.
Core Tenets of Stoicism:
Dichotomy of Control:
One of the central ideas in Stoicism is that there are things we can control (our thoughts, actions, responses) and things we cannot (other people’s actions, external events).
The key to happiness is focusing only on what’s within our control.
Epictetus:
“Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens.”
Living According to Nature:
Stoics believe that the universe operates according to rational principles.
By living in accordance with nature and reason, we align ourselves with the natural order of the world.
Virtue as the Only Good:
Stoicism teaches that virtue—comprising wisdom, justice, courage, and moderation—is the highest good.
External factors like wealth, health, and status are considered “indifferent,” meaning they are neither good nor bad in themselves.
Acceptance of Fate (Amor Fati):
Stoicism encourages us to embrace whatever life brings, including hardships, as part of a greater cosmic order.
By accepting fate, we free ourselves from unnecessary suffering.
What is Existentialism?
Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emerged in the 19th century, focusing on individual existence, freedom, and the search for meaning in a world often seen as irrational and indifferent.
Existentialists assert that life has no inherent purpose, and it is up to each individual to create their own meaning through choices, actions, and self-definition.
Core Tenets of Existentialism:
Freedom and Responsibility:
Existentialism emphasizes the idea that humans are radically free to make choices.
With this freedom comes the heavy burden of responsibility, as each person must take full ownership of their decisions and their consequences.
Jean-Paul Sartre:
“Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.”
Existential Angst:
Existentialists acknowledge that the freedom to define one’s own meaning in life leads to a form of anxiety, or “existential angst,” as individuals confront the uncertainty and absurdity of existence.
Albert Camus described this as the struggle of living in a universe that is indifferent to human concerns.
The Absurd:
The absurd refers to the conflict between humans’ desire for meaning and the universe’s lack of inherent purpose.
Existentialists argue that we must embrace this absurdity and create meaning through our actions, even in the face of an irrational world.
Authenticity:
Existentialism urges individuals to live authentically, meaning to act in accordance with their true self and values, rather than conforming to societal expectations or false comforts.
Kierkegaard warned against living inauthentically, which he termed as “living in bad faith,” where one denies their own freedom and responsibility.
Stoicism vs. Existentialism: Key Differences
View of Meaning and Purpose
Stoicism:
Stoicism posits that life has an inherent purpose, grounded in reason and the natural order.
Stoics believe that by living virtuously and in harmony with nature, individuals fulfill their purpose.
Marcus Aurelius wrote:
“Everything harmonizes with me, which is harmonious to thee, O Universe. Nothing for me is too early or too late, which is in due time for thee.”
For Stoics, meaning comes from living a life of virtue, regardless of external circumstances.
Existentialism:
Existentialism, on the other hand, denies any inherent meaning in the universe.
Instead, it asserts that individuals must create their own purpose through their choices and actions.
Life’s meaning is subjective, not universal, and it is up to each person to define what their existence means.
Sartre famously said:
“Existence precedes essence,”
meaning that humans first exist and then define themselves through their actions.
Response to Adversity
Stoicism:
Stoicism teaches that adversity is a part of life and should be faced with resilience and equanimity.
Stoics view hardships as opportunities to practice virtue—whether through patience, courage, or wisdom.
By accepting what we cannot control and focusing on how we respond, Stoics believe that we can overcome any challenge
Seneca noted:
“Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.”
Existentialism:
Existentialists acknowledge that adversity is inevitable in a world without inherent meaning.
Rather than looking for cosmic justice or a higher reason for suffering, existentialists focus on how individuals respond to adversity and how they find meaning in their struggles.
Adversity becomes another opportunity to express one’s freedom and authenticity.
Camus argued that life’s hardships should be met with defiance and perseverance, even in the face of the absurd.
Role of Virtue and Morality
Stoicism:
Stoicism places a strong emphasis on virtue as the highest good.
Stoics believe that a virtuous life is one lived in accordance with nature and reason, and that morality is objective and universal.
Acting wisely, justly, courageously, and with moderation is central to the Stoic conception of the good life.
Epictetus wrote:
“No man is free who is not master of himself.”
Existentialism:
Existentialism rejects the idea of objective, universal morality.
Instead, existentialists argue that individuals must create their own values and live authentically by those values.
Morality, like meaning, is subjective, and individuals bear full responsibility for defining and living by their chosen ethical code.
Sartre:
“Man is nothing else but that which he makes of himself.”
View of Death
Stoicism:
Stoicism encourages us to confront death without fear.
Since death is inevitable and beyond our control, Stoics believe that we should accept it as a natural part of life and live fully in the present moment.
By meditating on death (a practice called memento mori), Stoics seek to reduce the fear of it.
Marcus Aurelius wrote:
“It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live.”
Existentialism:
Existentialists also recognize death as an inevitable part of existence, but they view it as an ultimate reminder of life’s absurdity.
Since there is no inherent meaning to life, death simply marks the end of existence.
However, existentialists argue that the knowledge of death should inspire individuals to live authentically and make the most of their freedom.
Kierkegaard saw death as a motivator for confronting existential anxiety and making meaningful choices.
Stoicism vs. Existentialism: Practical Applications
Facing Life’s Challenges
Stoicism:
When faced with challenges, Stoics focus on what they can control and accept what they cannot.
By practicing detachment and maintaining composure, Stoics seek to navigate life’s difficulties with a sense of purpose and virtue.
Actionable Tip:
Practice the Stoic technique of negative visualization—imagine the worst possible outcomes in your life, and prepare mentally for them.
This helps build resilience and reduces anxiety when challenges arise.
Existentialism:
Existentialists embrace life’s challenges as part of the human experience.
Instead of looking for cosmic reasons or higher purpose, existentialists focus on how they can create meaning through their choices in the face of adversity.
Actionable Tip:
Take responsibility for your choices and actions.
Recognize that you are free to define how you will respond to life’s difficulties, and use that freedom to live authentically.
Seeking Meaning
Stoicism:
Stoics find meaning by living in accordance with nature, reason, and virtue.
For Stoics, living virtuously is the path to happiness and fulfillment, regardless of external circumstances.
Actionable Tip:
Reflect on how you can incorporate Stoic virtues—wisdom, courage, justice, and moderation—into your daily life.
Identify moments when you can act with virtue, and use them to guide your behavior.
Existentialism:
Existentialists believe that meaning is not found, but created.
Each individual must define their own purpose through their actions, embracing the absurdity of life while taking ownership of their choices.
Actionable Tip:
Explore what is meaningful to you, rather than what society dictates.
Define your own values and make conscious choices that align with those values.
Which Philosophy is Right for You?
Both Stoicism and Existentialism offer powerful frameworks for navigating life’s uncertainties and challenges.
Stoicism emphasizes inner peace through acceptance of fate and living virtuously, while Existentialism focuses on personal freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in an indifferent world.
If you seek a philosophy that provides structure, emphasizes self-discipline, and values acceptance of life’s circumstances, Stoicism may resonate with you.
On the other hand, if you are drawn to ideas of personal freedom, authenticity, and the creation of your own meaning, Existentialism may offer the answers you’re looking for.
Regardless of which philosophy you align with, both offer valuable insights for living a more intentional, meaningful life.