JamPower on Nostr: Stoic Word of the Day: Apatheia Meaning: Apatheia is the state of being free from ...
Stoic Word of the Day: Apatheia
Meaning: Apatheia is the state of being free from irrational or excessive emotions, often translated as “tranquility.” For the Stoics, it wasn’t about feeling nothing, but rather maintaining a rational perspective, free from destructive passions and emotional extremes.
Modern Example:
Imagine you’ve worked hard on a project, but it receives harsh criticism. Practicing apatheia means not reacting with defensiveness or despair but calmly accepting the feedback, evaluating it rationally, and using it to improve. Instead of being overwhelmed by disappointment or anger, you focus on maintaining inner stability.
Today, apatheia can be seen as emotional resilience—choosing not to be swayed by temporary feelings or external events, but responding with clarity and reason. It’s a commitment to inner peace, no matter the circumstances.
Meaning: Apatheia is the state of being free from irrational or excessive emotions, often translated as “tranquility.” For the Stoics, it wasn’t about feeling nothing, but rather maintaining a rational perspective, free from destructive passions and emotional extremes.
Modern Example:
Imagine you’ve worked hard on a project, but it receives harsh criticism. Practicing apatheia means not reacting with defensiveness or despair but calmly accepting the feedback, evaluating it rationally, and using it to improve. Instead of being overwhelmed by disappointment or anger, you focus on maintaining inner stability.
Today, apatheia can be seen as emotional resilience—choosing not to be swayed by temporary feelings or external events, but responding with clarity and reason. It’s a commitment to inner peace, no matter the circumstances.