Glossary of Common Stoic Terms

Apatheia (ἀπάθεια)

Definition: A state of being free from irrational passions or emotional disturbances. In Stoicism, apatheia is achieved through the practice of rationality and virtue, allowing one to remain undisturbed by external events.
Origin: The term originates from the Greek word "pathos" (πάθος), meaning passion or emotion, with the prefix "a-" indicating the absence of these emotions.

Andreia (Ἀνδρεία)

Definition: The Stoic virtue of courage, encompassing both physical bravery and moral fortitude. It is the ability to confront fear, pain, or adversity with calmness and resolve.
Origin: The Greek word "andreia" literally means "manliness" or "bravery," derived from "anēr" (ἀνήρ), meaning man. It reflects the ancient ideal of courage as a defining human quality.

Aretē (ἀρετή)

Definition: Virtue or excellence, particularly in moral and intellectual qualities. Aretē is the highest aim of Stoic practice, guiding individuals toward a life of rationality and harmony with nature.
Origin: The term "aretē" has roots in ancient Greek culture, where it originally referred to excellence in any kind of endeavor, later becoming associated with moral virtue in philosophical contexts.

Ataraxia (ἀταραξία)

Definition: A state of tranquility and freedom from anxiety, often considered a goal of Stoic practice. Ataraxia is achieved through the cultivation of virtue and the acceptance of things beyond one’s control.
Origin: The word comes from the Greek "a-" (without) and "taraktos" (disturbed), meaning a state of being undisturbed.

Cosmopolis (Κοσμόπολις)

Definition: The Stoic concept of a universal city or community, where all humans are citizens, governed by reason and natural law.
Origin: The term is derived from "kosmos" (universe) and "polis" (city), reflecting the Stoic belief in a shared, rational order that binds all people.

Dikaiosyne (Δικαιοσύνη)

Definition: The Stoic virtue of justice, encompassing fairness, equity, and respect for others. It involves recognizing the interconnectedness of all humans and acting for the common good.
Origin: The word comes from "dikaios," meaning just or righteous, and is central to Stoic ethics, reflecting the importance of treating others with respect and fairness.

Eudaimonia (Εὐδαιμονία)

Definition: Often translated as "happiness" or "flourishing," eudaimonia is the ultimate goal in Stoicism, achieved through living a life of virtue in accordance with reason and nature.
Origin: The term comes from "eu" (good) and "daimōn" (spirit), indicating a state of being blessed or favored by the gods, later philosophically redefined as living in harmony with one’s true nature.

Fortitude (Fortitudo)

Definition: In Stoicism, fortitude is often synonymous with courage (andreia), but it can also refer to the resilience and inner strength required to endure hardships and remain steadfast in the pursuit of virtue.
Origin: The Latin term "fortitudo" reflects the broader Roman influence on Stoic terminology and emphasizes the strength of character in facing adversity.

Katalepsis (Κατάληψις)

Definition: The Stoic concept of a clear and distinct grasp or comprehension of reality, which is central to their epistemology. It is the state of having an assured understanding, free from error.
Origin: The term is derived from "katalambanein," meaning to seize or grasp, reflecting the Stoic emphasis on secure, rational knowledge.

Logos (Λόγος)

Definition: The divine reason or rational principle that orders the universe, central to Stoic theology and cosmology. Logos is considered both the source of all rationality and the underlying order of nature.
Origin: The word "logos" has multiple meanings, including word, reason, and principle. In Stoicism, it represents the rational structure that pervades the cosmos, connecting all things.

Oikeiosis (Οἰκείωσις)

Definition: The Stoic concept of natural affection or affinity, beginning with self-preservation and extending to family, community, and humanity. It is the process by which individuals recognize their connection to others and their place in the cosmos.
Origin: The term comes from "oikeios," meaning belonging to oneself or familiar, highlighting the innate drive to care for oneself and, by extension, others.

Phronesis (Φρόνησις)

Definition: Practical wisdom or prudence, a key aspect of the Stoic virtue of wisdom (sophia). It involves the ability to make sound decisions and act virtuously in everyday life.
Origin: The word "phronesis" is derived from "phronein," meaning to think or to have understanding. It emphasizes the practical application of knowledge in ethical decision-making.

Sophia (Σοφία)

Definition: The Stoic virtue of wisdom, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Sophia is the ability to understand the world through reason and to live in accordance with that understanding.
Origin: The Greek word "sophia" means wisdom or skill, reflecting the comprehensive nature of this virtue in Stoicism, where it is considered the highest form of knowledge.

Sympatheia (Συμπάθεια)

Definition: The Stoic concept of the interconnectedness of all things in the cosmos, leading to a sense of universal compassion and understanding. It reflects the belief that all parts of the universe are linked by the same rational order (Logos).
Origin: The term "sympatheia" is derived from "syn-" (together) and "pathos" (feeling), indicating a shared feeling or connection between all things.

Temperance (Sōphrosynē - Σωφροσύνη)

Definition: The Stoic virtue of self-control, moderation, and restraint. It involves regulating one’s desires and impulses to ensure they align with reason and virtue.
Origin: The Greek term "sōphrosynē" combines "sōs" (safe, sound) and "phrēn" (mind), indicating a soundness of mind and character that leads to moderation in all aspects of life.