Human reason grows rich by self-conquest
A conversation with ChatGPT about ideas from Publilius Syrus and Seneca
Jannik: It seems to me that stoicism is widely being approached in an unproductive way. We try to internalize the dogmas of stoic ethics, or perhaps stoics physics if we are really adventurous, but logic - in the wide sense the Stoics understood it which includes critical (virtuous) thinking - is largely being ignored. In my opinion, a modern student of Stoicism should clearly begin with logic: develop good, strong skills in critical, perceptive thinking and the rest will follow.
Seneca seems to be thinking along similar lines in this quote (among other places in his works):
"philosophy cannot exist without virtue, nor virtue without philosophy. Philosophy is the study of virtue, by means, however, of virtue itself; but neither can virtue exist without the study of itself, nor can the study of virtue exist without virtue itself. For it is not like trying to hit a target at long range, where the shooter and the object to be shot at are in different places. Nor, as roads which lead into a city, are the approaches to virtue situated outside virtue herself; the path by which one reaches virtue leads by way of virtue herself; philosophy and virtue cling closely together."
- Seneca, Letters 89.8
ChatGPT 4.0: You raise an interesting point about the role of logic in Stoicism and its potential importance for modern students of the philosophy. Stoicism does indeed emphasize the importance of logic, ethics, and physics as interconnected components of its system.
The quote you shared from Seneca highlights the intrinsic connection between philosophy and virtue. It suggests that one cannot truly understand virtue without actively practicing it and vice versa. This intertwining relationship between theory and practice is a crucial aspect of Stoicism.
In the context of Stoic logic, it is important to remember that the Stoics considered logic as more than just formal reasoning or argumentation. They saw it as an essential part of developing wisdom and cultivating virtue. This is because they believed that our ability to reason and think critically is what separates us from other animals, and therefore, it is vital to our moral development.
By emphasizing the importance of logic and critical thinking, you are pointing to a valuable aspect of Stoicism that might be overlooked in modern interpretations. Developing strong critical thinking skills can indeed help students gain a better understanding of Stoic ethics and physics. Moreover, it can also aid in fostering a more rational and considered approach to life, which aligns with the Stoic ideal of living in harmony with reason.
As a modern student of Stoicism, focusing on logic can help create a solid foundation for understanding and applying the philosophy in daily life. This approach allows one to build the mental fortitude necessary to face life's challenges with equanimity and cultivate virtues like wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance.
Jannik: I guess it would be fair to say that it is commonly understood that virtue requires reason - but not so commonly used that reason requires virtue. Good thinking requires courage, temperance and fairness - both when an individual is thinking by himself and even more so when two or more people are having a conversation.
ChatGPT: Yes, that's an insightful observation. While it is commonly recognized that virtue requires reason, the reciprocal relationship – that reason requires virtue – is often overlooked. Good thinking does indeed necessitate the cultivation of virtues like courage, temperance, and fairness.
Courage is essential in the realm of reasoning because it allows individuals to confront challenging ideas and situations without being swayed by fear or anxiety. It encourages open-mindedness and the willingness to explore new perspectives, even when they may challenge one's existing beliefs.
Temperance plays a vital role in good thinking by fostering self-discipline and moderation. It helps prevent individuals from becoming dogmatic, stubborn, or overzealous in their beliefs, and encourages them to maintain a balanced and measured approach to reasoning.
Fairness, or justice, is also critical for good thinking. It involves treating ideas and arguments with impartiality and evaluating them based on their merits, rather than personal biases or preconceptions. In a conversation, fairness ensures that all participants are given an equal opportunity to express their views and that their arguments are considered with respect and without prejudice.
Ultimately, cultivating these virtues is essential for fostering clear, rational, and unbiased thinking. When individuals practice these virtues, they not only improve their own reasoning abilities but also contribute to creating a more constructive and harmonious environment for intellectual discourse. This aligns with the Stoic emphasis on living in accordance with reason and striving for wisdom, as well as fostering a sense of community and mutual support in the pursuit of virtue.
Jannik: I guess this also the underlying idea in this quote from Publilius Syrus:
"Human reason grows rich by self-conquest."
- Publilius Syrus, Sayings, 53
ChatGPT: Yes, the quote from Publilius Syrus encapsulates the idea that personal growth and the development of reason are intimately connected to self-conquest. Self-conquest, in this context, refers to the process of overcoming one's own biases, weaknesses, and limitations through self-discipline and the cultivation of virtues like courage, temperance, and fairness.
As individuals develop these virtues and conquer their personal obstacles, they become better equipped to engage in clear, rational, and unbiased thinking. This self-conquest not only enhances their reasoning abilities but also contributes to their personal growth and the pursuit of wisdom.
Stoicism, as a philosophy, emphasizes the importance of self-mastery and self-improvement in the quest for wisdom and virtue. By embracing this process of self-conquest, individuals can align themselves with the Stoic ideal of living in accordance with reason and ultimately lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Thank you for the post and the beautiful illustration! I think circle or sphere is the ideal symbol for Stoic ideal of a well lived life. :)