Understanding Health from a Stoic Perspective: The Role of Well-Being in Virtue and Wisdom

The importance of being healthy has been a fundamental concern for various philosophical traditions, including Stoicism. From a Stoic perspective, health can be considered a preferred indifferent – something that is desirable but not essential for a virtuous life. However, it is not to be overlooked, as health plays a pivotal role in supporting the pursuit of virtue and wisdom. Here’s a detailed exploration of this perspective.

Stoicism and Indifferents

Stoicism is a school of Hellenistic philosophy founded in Athens in the 3rd century BCE. The Stoics propose that the ultimate goal of human life is to live in accordance with nature, which means living a virtuous life. They divide things into two categories: things that are up to us (our judgments, desires, and actions) and things that are not up to us (external things like health, wealth, and reputation).

According to the Stoics, the only true good is virtue, while everything else is indifferent. Indifferents are further classified into "preferred" and "dispreferred" categories. Health falls into the category of preferred indifferents because it can facilitate the practice of virtue but is not a requirement for a good life.

Health and Virtue

The Stoic philosopher Epictetus said, “It is not the things themselves that disturb people but their judgments about those things” (Enchiridion, 5). This statement applies to health, as well. Health is not intrinsically good or bad, but our judgments about it may lead us to perceive it as such.

Epictetus also spoke about the importance of taking care of the body: “The care of the body ought to be neither troublesome nor expensive, but on the contrary, easy and simple” (Enchiridion, 41). He recognized that health requires some attention, but not to the point of obsession.

Seneca, another Stoic philosopher, wrote, “Good health when it is genuine is maintained with no great trouble; it is a cheerful and calm condition” (Letters to Lucilius, 95). Seneca understood that maintaining good health doesn't have to be an arduous task; it can be something pursued calmly, without disturbing one's peace of mind.

Stoicism and Modern Perspectives on Health

In the modern era, Stoicism can provide valuable insights into the pursuit of health. While the world often stresses the importance of physical appearance and fitness, Stoicism encourages us to view health from a more balanced perspective. It's not an end in itself, but a means to live virtuously and fulfill our natural roles.

Taking care of our bodies becomes a duty in this framework, not for vanity's sake but to be better able to carry out our roles and responsibilities. Health becomes an aspect of self-control, a practice of moderation, and an exercise in wisdom.

Conclusion

Stoicism teaches that health, though desirable, is not the ultimate goal of life. Rather, it's something that can aid in the pursuit of wisdom and virtue. By caring for our health, we enable ourselves to act more effectively and live in alignment with our true nature.

While health is not essential for living a good life from a Stoic perspective, neglecting it can create obstacles to virtuous living. The balanced approach offered by Stoicism can lead to a more fulfilling and centered life.

Further Reading List

1. Epictetus, “Enchiridion” - A manual of Stoic ethical advice, containing several insights into the Stoic perspective on health.

2. Seneca, “Letters to Lucilius” - A collection of letters by Seneca discussing various Stoic philosophies, including thoughts on health.

3. William B. Irvine, “A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy” - A modern interpretation of Stoic philosophy, with a chapter dedicated to indifferents including health.

4. Massimo Pigliucci, “How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life”** - A modern guide to Stoicism with practical applications to areas such as health.

5. Donald Robertson, “Stoicism and the Art of Happiness” - An exploration of how Stoic philosophy can lead to a happier life, including the role of health in this pursuit.