Stoic News

By Dave Kelly

Friday, June 16, 2023

The Meaning of the Stoic Dichotomy of Internals and Externals -- Bard

 

Bard,

What is the meaning of the Stoic dichotomy of internals and externals? Which things are internal and which are external?


"Bard"

"The Stoic dichotomy of internals and externals is a philosophical concept that divides things into two categories: those that are within our control, and those that are not. The Stoics believed that the only things that are truly within our control are our thoughts, our actions, and our choices. Everything else, including our bodies, our possessions, and the opinions of others, is external to us and beyond our control.

"The Stoics argued that it is important to understand this distinction because it can help us to live more fulfilling and less stressful lives. If we focus on things that are external to us, we will inevitably experience disappointment and frustration. However, if we focus on the things that are within our control, we can cultivate a sense of peace and tranquility.

"It is important to note that the Stoics did not believe that the external world was unimportant. They simply argued that it is not within our control, and therefore, we should not allow it to dictate our emotions or our happiness. Instead, we should focus on the things that are within our control, and use our reason to cultivate a positive outlook on life.

"Here are some examples of how the Stoic dichotomy of internals and externals can be applied in everyday life:

• If you are feeling stressed about a job interview, you can focus on the things that are within your control, such as your preparation and your attitude. You cannot control whether or not you get the job, but you can control how you respond to the outcome.

• If you are feeling angry about something that someone else did, you can focus on your own thoughts and actions. You cannot control what other people do, but you can control how you react to it.

• If you are feeling sad about something that happened in the past, you can focus on the present moment. You cannot control the past, but you can control how you think about it in the present.

"The Stoic dichotomy of internals and externals is a powerful tool that can help us to live more fulfilling and less stressful lives. By understanding the distinction between what is within our control and what is not, we can cultivate a sense of peace and tranquility, even in the face of adversity" (Bard).


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