Ancient Philosophy — Season 1, Episode 5: Stoicism
Documentary, Talk • 65 min • 1 season, 6 episodes
Episode synopsis
In lecture five, we see the emergence and key ideas of Stoicism, an influential philosophical school founded by Zeno of Citium in Athens around 300 BC. The lecture traces the historical context and intellectual lineage of Stoicism, highlighting its roots in Socratic thought and Cynicism, while also situating it within the broader philosophical landscape of the Hellenistic period. Dr. Orr elucidates that central to Stoic philosophy is the notion of living in accordance with reason and nature, cultivating inner resilience, and embracing a form of ethical universalism that recognizes the shared humanity of all people.
About Ancient Philosophy
In Ancient Philosophy, a seven-hour course, Dr. Orr takes us on an exploration of the rich history of ancient Greek thought, beginning with the foundational ideas of the Ionian and Eleatic schools and voyaging through the transformative philosophies of Plato and Aristotle. The course also examines the emergence of Stoicism and Epicureanism during the Hellenistic period, emphasizing their distinct approaches to ethics, nature, and the human condition. Throughout the course, we trace the evolution of pivotal concepts in metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics that have shaped Western thought for millennia, underscoring the enduring relevance and transformative power of ancient Greek philosophy in modern times.