Stoicism: A Very Short Introduction

Stoicism is a philosophical school of ancient Greece and Rome that inspires people to re-think and re-organize their lives to achieve personal satisfaction. This Very Short Introduction provides an introductory account of Stoic philosophy, exploring its roots in the philosophy of fourth century BCE Greece, its basic history and doctrines, and its relationship to Plato, Aristotle, and his successors. Brad Inwood argues that there is a common core of philosophical insight that unites the modern version of Stoicism to its original founders, Zeno, Cleanthes, and Chrysippus. He concludes by considering the place of Stoicism in modern life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2018
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Stoicism is a multifaceted concept encompassing both a historical philosophical school of ancient Greece and Rome and an ongoing philosophical movement that continues to inspire individuals in the twenty-first century to re-examine and re-organize their lives in pursuit of personal fulfillment. This Very Short Introduction offers an introductory exploration of Stoic philosophy, tracing its origins back to the philosophy of fourth-century BCE Greece. Author Brad Inwood delves into the history, doctrines, and connections of Stoicism with Plato, Aristotle, and their successors, as well as with the Epicureans. He highlights the evolution of Stoicism's reception in the Western tradition and argues that, despite differences between ancient and contemporary Stoics, there exists a shared philosophical core that unites the modern version of Stoicism with its original founders, Zeno, Cleanthes, and Chrysippus. Inwood concludes by considering the relevance and significance of Stoicism in modern life.

The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press is a comprehensive collection of concise and informative books covering a wide range of subjects. These pocket-sized volumes are designed to provide a quick and accessible introduction to new topics, making them ideal for individuals seeking to gain a deeper understanding of a subject in a short amount of time.

Weight: 128g
Dimension: 182 x 118 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198786665