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You'll notice that that's not what I (or Nietzsche) said. I agree that Stoicism isn't about eliminating emotions, but it is about not letting them overtake our
by JenrHywy 3y ago
You'll notice that that's not what I (or Nietzsche) said. I agree that Stoicism isn't about eliminating emotions, but it is about not letting them overtake our rationality.
My contention is that to experience the deepest and most profound emotions requires you to submit to them, and Stoicism (very intentionally) prevents that.
- zozbot234 3y agoThe Stoic notion of rationality is perhaps a bit counterintuitive. As Stoics see it, everything in our minds is "rational" as-is, including our deepest emotions. The relevant issue when deciding whether to assent or not to some emotion and its development into a passion is whether it comports with our nature and with virtue. Of course, the modern notion of rationality in its abstract logical sense has zilch to do with this - Stoics are nowhere close to aspiring Vulcans! (This is most easily contrasted with Plato's account, in which the adult mind does have non-rational parts - the "appetite", which is inherently in need of control and restraint, and the "spirit" which like the appetite is not per se rational but it is aligned with reason and against the appetite.)
- JenrHywy 3y agoPerhaps we've just read different Stoics. I think it's clear from many scenarios in The Enchiridion that the aim is to not become fully emersed in emotion. Some examples that spring to mind: - going to sporting events to be socially acceptable, but not allowing yourself to care about the outcome - comforting a woman on the death of her child, and making the outward appearance of sympathy, not not actually sinking into sadness I can't think of a single example of any of the Stoics I've read recommending becoming overwhelmed by emotion or experience.