Introduction
Living according to nature in an age of unprecedented technological advancement and environmental change presents both challenges and opportunities for the modern Stoic practitioner. To authentically embody this principle, we must understand its essence and adapt it to our current context while remaining true to its core tenets.
Understanding 'Living According to Nature'
The Stoic concept of 'living according to nature' is multifaceted. As Diogenes Laertius explains, it involves aligning ourselves with both universal nature and our individual human nature. This means:
Understanding our place in the cosmos
Recognizing our rational faculties
Using them to live virtuously in harmony with the world around us
Challenges in the Modern Context
In our technologically advanced age, we must first acknowledge that human innovation is, in itself, a product of our nature. Our capacity for reason and creativity has led to these advancements. However, the challenge lies in using technology wisely and in moderation, ensuring it enhances rather than detracts from our pursuit of virtue.
Strategies for Embodying Stoic Principles in the Modern Age
To embody this principle authentically, we should:
1. Cultivate Wisdom in Our Use of Technology
We must use our reason to discern which technological advancements truly align with our nature and which may lead us astray. As Seneca advises:
"Philosophy, however, is the only power that can stir us, the only power that can shake off our deep slumber."
We should apply philosophical thinking to our engagement with technology, questioning its impact on our character and well-being.
2. Maintain Connection with the Natural World
Despite our technological surroundings, we must not lose touch with the physical world that sustains us. Marcus Aurelius reminds us:
"I continue my course by actions according to nature, until I fall and cease, breathing out my last breath into that air, by which continually breathed in I did live; and falling upon that earth, out of whose gifts and fruits my father gathered his seed, my mother her blood, and my nurse her milk."
Regular interaction with nature can ground us and remind us of our place in the larger cosmos.
3. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Reflection
The constant stimulation of our technological world can easily distract us from our inner selves. We must create space for quiet contemplation. As Seneca suggests:
"Withdraw into yourself, as far as you can. Associate with those who will make a better man of you. Welcome those whom you yourself can improve."
4. Focus on Virtue in the Digital Age
The core Stoic virtues of wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance remain relevant. We should strive to embody these in our online interactions, our use of social media, and our consumption of digital content. Epictetus teaches us:
"Show me a man that is sick--and happy; an exile--and happy; in evil report--and happy!"
5. Address Environmental Challenges Proactively
The environmental changes we face are part of the current nature of our world. A Stoic approach would be to accept this reality while also taking responsible action. As Marcus Aurelius advises:
"Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart."
6. Cultivate Resilience
In a rapidly changing world, resilience is key. The Stoic practice of negative visualization can help us prepare for potential technological disruptions or environmental challenges. Seneca reminds us:
"We should every night call ourselves to an account: What infirmity have I mastered today? What passions opposed? What temptation resisted? What virtue acquired?"
7. Maintain Perspective
While our technological advancements may seem all-encompassing, we should remember our place in the grand scheme of the cosmos. As Marcus Aurelius notes:
"Soon you will have forgotten all things: soon all things will have forgotten you."
8. Engage in Lifelong Learning
Our rapidly evolving world requires continuous adaptation. We should embrace this as an opportunity for growth, always seeking to expand our understanding. Seneca encourages us:
"As long as you live, keep learning how to live."
9. Practice Moderation
In a world of constant connectivity and instant gratification, temperance is crucial. We should use technology and resources mindfully, avoiding excess. Seneca advises:
"It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor."
10. Contribute to the Common Good
Our interconnected world provides unprecedented opportunities to impact others positively. We should use our skills and resources to contribute to the welfare of humanity and our planet. As Marcus Aurelius reminds us:
"What is not good for the beehive cannot be good for the bees."
Conclusion
Living according to nature in our modern age requires a delicate balance. We must embrace the aspects of technology and progress that align with our rational nature and contribute to virtue, while also maintaining our connection to the natural world and our inner selves. By focusing on wisdom, resilience, moderation, and our duty to the common good, we can navigate the challenges of our time while staying true to the essence of Stoic philosophy.
As Seneca wisely states:
"True happiness is... to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future."
In our quest to live according to nature amidst technological advancement and environmental change, let us strive to embody this sentiment, finding contentment in our pursuit of virtue regardless of external circumstances.
Living According to Nature in the Modern Age: A Stoic Perspective