On Being Oikeiôtic with Prof. William Stephens

Practical Stoicism

In today's episode of Practical Stoicism, I'm thrilled to bring back Professor William Stephens for a deep dive into Oikeiôsis, the theme of this month. We delve into its ancient Stoic roots and its relevance in contemporary life, exploring how it helps us understand what is truly ours to be concerned with. Oikeiôsis, a term that signifies the recognition of what is akin or appropriate to us, extends our concern beyond ourselves to our family, community, humanity, and the entire biosphere. Professor Stephens clarifies that while Oikeiôsis is a uniquely Stoic term, its principles are universally applicable, emphasizing our interconnection with all living things and the wider world.

Our conversation also tackles misconceptions of Stoicism, highlighting that it's not merely a life hack or a path to personal success but a profound guide for ethical living and community engagement. We discuss how Stoicism, especially through the concept of Oikeiôsis, informs our sense of justice and moral duty, urging us to consider our roles and responsibilities within the vast network of relationships that define our lives.

As we conclude, we touch upon the critical issue of environmental responsibility, linking the Stoic view of Oikeiôsis to contemporary concerns like global warming. This episode is a reminder that Stoicism, with its emphasis on virtue and common good, offers timeless wisdom for navigating the complexities of modern life and contributing positively to the world around us. Join us as we explore these ancient yet ever-relevant ideas and how they can inspire us to lead more thoughtful, interconnected lives.

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William's book : https://a.co/d/9U5511N

William's Santa Claus article : https://read.actualstoicism.com/p/is-santa-a-stoic

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