Ancient Philosophy

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.