Our Philosophy
What is Stoicism?
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium around 300 B.C. Its teachings emphasize rationality, virtue, and the importance of aligning oneself with the natural order. Stoicism became especially influential in Roman times, embraced by thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, who taught that external events are beyond our control, but we can always control our reactions to them.
​
At its core, Stoicism teaches that the path to happiness is found in accepting the present moment as it is, exercising reason and virtue in all actions, and maintaining inner peace despite life's challenges.
.png)
"No man is free who is not master of himself."
— Epictetus
The Four Cardinal Virtues
Stoicism is built on four foundational virtues that guide us toward a life of moral excellence and inner peace. These virtues—Wisdom, Courage, Justice, and Temperance—are timeless principles that can be applied to every aspect of life, helping us to live with clarity, resilience, and purpose.
Wisdom (Sophia)
Wisdom in Stoicism is the ability to understand what truly matters in life and make decisions based on reason. It involves seeing the world clearly—recognizing that while we can't control external events, we can control how we respond to them. A wise person knows the difference between what is in their power (thoughts, actions) and what is not (circumstances, outcomes), allowing them to navigate life with clarity and purpose. Wisdom is the guide that helps us act virtuously, align with nature, and live in harmony with reality.
Courage (Andreia)
Courage in Stoicism is the strength to face fear, pain, and adversity while still doing what is right. It's not about being fearless but about standing firm in the face of challenges and acting with integrity, even when it's difficult. A Stoic embraces discomfort and hardship as opportunities to grow, recognizing that true courage is found in persistence and moral conviction, rather than in avoiding struggle.
Justice (Dikaiosyne)
Justice is the virtue that guides how we interact with others. It means treating people fairly, respecting their rights, and contributing to the common good. For a Stoic, justice is about recognizing our duty to others and acting with honesty, fairness, and responsibility. It’s about living with a deep sense of moral obligation, ensuring that our actions promote harmony and uphold the principles of fairness in both small and large matters.
Temperance (Sophrosyne)
Temperance is the practice of self-control and moderation in all things. It allows us to manage our desires and impulses, ensuring we aren’t ruled by excess or emotions. A Stoic exercises temperance by remaining balanced, avoiding extremes, and living with a sense of restraint. This virtue helps us stay focused on what truly matters, cultivating inner peace by mastering our reactions and desires.
Be the first to know
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive news and updates.