The ancient stoics are known for their profound views of human philosophy.
The philosophies of these early thinkers set the stage for humans to learn values such as ethics and self-control, as well as providing us with a guide to take better control pf our lives.
The stoics believed strongly in the human ability to live a life of flourishment.
In the pursuit of their thinking, they established a system of human ethics and virtues that if practiced, can allow humans to live more fruitful lives.
The four main virtues of stoicism are as follows: wisdom, temperence, justice, and courage.
Wisdom:
Wisdom is the heart of the four virtues.
The stoics believed that in order for humans to obtain a better understanding of what is and what isn’t within our control, we must have wisdom.
In its natural essence, wisdom is understanding and differentiating outside circumstances and our internal way of dealing with things.
Wisdom is also a matter of understanding things of importance - knowing the difference between what virtues can bring, versus external material matters such as money and status.
Courage:
Courage is the ability to act despite the feeling of fear.
For the stoics, courage is the ability to face any challeneges life throws our way.
Being able to act regardless of risk or how afraid we may be of the outcome is how we can build courage and confidence in our ability to overcome obstacles.
Temperance:
Temperance, in its most raw form, is self-control.
Self-control is derived from our ability to stay disciplined, as well as have control over our emotions in all situations.
Through having stoic command over one’s emotions, they can protect themselves from their own impulsive desires.
Justice:
Justice is a matter of how humans act in relation to other humans im all situations, good and bad.
Self-centeredness is non-existent in the world of justice.
The well-being of others should influence the way we think so that we can act rightly by others.