#306 - What is a Stoic Sage?

In moments of reflection on what we are doing with our lives, the thought can creep up: Am I doing enough? Could I be doing more good in my life? The Stoics have their fair share of radical ideas, but one that may be tremendously useful in the contemplation of this question is that there is no such thing as the idea of doing “more good” in Stoicism. Wherever you are right now is where you are supposed to be, and you can only act appropriately - no more, no less. Of course, unless you are a Sage. But what is a Sage? And is this idea in Stoicism a useful one, or does it simply hold back our ambitions?

Summary
In this conversation, the host explores the concept of the Stoic Sage and the idea of acting virtuously. The Stoic Sage is a person who can do no wrong and always acts in accordance with nature. However, the host acknowledges that the idea of a perfect sage is not realistic. Instead, he suggests that we can look to individuals in our lives who embody qualities of wisdom, kindness, and strength as examples of the Stoic Sage.

Takeaways

• The Stoic Sage is a person who can do no wrong and always acts in accordance with nature.
• The idea of a perfect sage is not realistic, but we can look to individuals in our lives who embody qualities of wisdom, kindness, and strength as examples of the Stoic Sage.
• Instead of striving for perfection, we should focus on acting appropriately in each present moment.

Chapters00:00Introduction and Setting the Context
03:20The Concept of the Stoic Sage
04:17The Imperfection of the Sage
05:07Defining the Qualities of a Sage
06:03Different Personalities of Sages
07:00Living According to Nature
08:00The Actions of a Sage
09:54No Such Thing as Doing More Good
10:23The Indifference of Yelling
11:20Different Sages, Different Contexts
12:16The Outcome is Irrelevant
13:14Acting Appropriately in the Present Moment
18:28Gradual Improvement and Self-Forgiveness
30:52Connecting the Questions to the Stoic Sage



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