In recent years, Stoicism has enjoyed a revival, thanks largely to social media influencers promoting its principles as tools for personal success and emotional detachment. Unfortunately, many of these interpretations oversimplify Stoic philosophy, distorting it into a self-serving mindset that justifies selfishness and disregards Stoicism’s deeper moral and ethical teachings.
At its core, Stoicism is a philosophy of virtue, self-mastery, and living in harmony with nature. Contrary to the “hustle culture” spin of many influencers, Stoicism is not about ruthless individualism or suppressing emotions to appear unbothered. Instead, it emphasizes aligning one’s life with natural law, fostering self-discipline, and contributing to the greater good.
The Misuse of Stoicism in Social Media
Many influencers present Stoicism as a tool to “win at life” by becoming impervious to external criticism or hardship. While resilience is an important aspect of Stoicism, the philosophy does not endorse cold indifference or prioritizing one’s success over moral obligations to others. This misunderstanding stems from cherry-picking Stoic maxims, like Marcus Aurelius’ advice to “control what you can control,” without engaging with the broader ethical framework that underpins these teachings.
This distortion leads to a superficial understanding of Stoicism that neglects its foundational commitment to virtue—justice, courage, temperance, and wisdom. True Stoicism challenges individuals to act with integrity and humility, placing the common good above self-interest.
Stoicism and Catholicism: A Shared Commitment to Natural Law
For those who seek a deeper understanding of Stoicism, exploring its parallels with Catholic theology offers profound insights. Both Stoicism and Catholicism affirm the existence of natural law, a universal moral order accessible through reason.
Seneca, a Roman Stoic philosopher, illustrates this beautifully in his essay On the Happy Life, where he argues that living in accordance with natural law pleases God. This concept resonates deeply with Catholic theology, which teaches that divine law establishes natural law as a guide for human behavior. Both traditions call for self-discipline, a life of virtue, and a recognition that true happiness comes from aligning with a higher moral order rather than chasing fleeting pleasures or personal gain.
Stoicism as a Path to Becoming a Better Christian
Catholicism takes the best of Stoicism and elevates it through God’s grace. While Stoicism provides practical tools for self-mastery and virtue, Catholicism adds a spiritual dimension—faith, hope, and love. Grace enables individuals to live virtuously not just through human effort but by participating in God’s divine life.
As St. Thomas Aquinas noted, grace does not abolish nature but perfects it. Similarly, Stoic practices like meditation, gratitude, and reflection can serve as stepping stones for Christians seeking to grow in virtue and deepen their faith. By integrating Stoic principles with Catholic spirituality, one can pursue both moral excellence and a loving relationship with God.
Reclaiming Stoicism’s True Essence
Rather than reducing Stoicism to a trendy lifestyle hack, we should honor its true depth by engaging with its ethical teachings and its call to virtue. For Christians, this journey can be even richer, as Stoic principles align beautifully with the moral teachings of Catholicism, offering a roadmap for personal growth and spiritual fulfillment.
By rejecting the selfish distortions promoted on social media, we can rediscover Stoicism’s timeless wisdom—a wisdom that encourages us to live not for ourselves, but for the common good and, ultimately, for God.
For personalized guidance on self-improvement and living a life of virtue, visit our office in Calabasas, CA, or contact us to start your journey today.
