Question

Explain and discuss the Stoic doctrine that virtue consists in living "according to nature." Can you define naturein such a way that this doctine would no longer be acceptable?

Answer 1

This branch or doctrine of Stoicism is a part of the ancient greek philosophy. It essentially teaches the value of emotional management as a means to restrict or exert control over destructive emotions. Self control and fortitude are some of these virtues that have been talked about. It teaches a way of life which focuses on transforming oneself to a better self and evolve one's being in order to be more and more adaptive with the help of practice. The literal meaning of the word stoic refers to someone who is indifferent or who has unemotional patterns or ways of being. The aim of this philosophy and its ethics is on focusing the energy on overcoming the desire for passions. This is done through the pursuit of reasoning. Essentially living according to nature means that the teachings of ethical practices in alignment to Buddhism are something that must be adopted in order to have a more fulfilling and meaningful life. For instance moral restraint and self-discipline are to be adopted more religiously.