What Role Does Stoicism Play in our Modern-day Society of Publishing?

Before we even dive into this topic, let us take a moment to brush up on the concept of stoicism and what it really is? 

Well, stoicism is a philosophy that originated in ancient Greece and was later developed in Rome. It is based on the idea that individuals can achieve inner peace and happiness by cultivating self-control, rationality, and detachment from emotional reactions to external events. Stoicism teaches that individuals should focus on what is within their control and accept what is outside of their control with equanimity. This means that individuals should not be overly attached to external outcomes or outcomes that are beyond their influence. Instead, they should focus on their own actions and responses to situations.

The stoic philosophy emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with nature and cultivating virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. By living a virtuous life, individuals can achieve a sense of fulfillment and contentment. Stoicism has been influential throughout history, and its principles continue to resonate with many people today. It is often seen as a way to achieve greater emotional resilience and mental wellbeing, as well as a framework for ethical decision-making and leadership.

Stoicism has a long and rich history, and there have been many influential figures who have shaped its development over the centuries. Here are a few of the most influential Stoics and their contributions to the philosophy:

• Zeno of Citium (334-262 BCE): He is considered the founder of Stoicism, and his teachings laid the groundwork for the philosophy. He emphasized the importance of living in accordance with nature, and taught that virtue is the only true good.

• Epictetus (55-135 CE): He was a former slave who became a Stoic philosopher and teacher. His teachings emphasized the importance of self-control and the need to focus on what is within our control, rather than worrying about external events.

• Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE): He was a Roman Emperor who also wrote extensively on Stoic philosophy. His Meditations is one of the most famous works of Stoicism, and reflects on the importance of living a virtuous life in the face of adversity.

• Seneca (4 BCE-65 CE): He was a Roman philosopher and statesman who wrote extensively on Stoic philosophy. His works include letters and essays on a variety of topics, including ethics, politics, and the importance of living in accordance with nature.

These stoics were influential in different ways, but all contributed to the development of a philosophy that continues to inspire and guide people today. Although there isn't enough evidence of well-known African stoics in ancient times, there are some notable philosophers and thinkers from Africa who developed their own unique schools of thought such as:

• Philosopher Augustine of Hippo, who lived in the 4th and 5th centuries AD in what is now Algeria. Augustine was heavily influenced by the philosophy of Neoplatonism, but he also drew on elements of Stoicism in his work. For example, Augustine emphasized the importance of self-control and detachment from material desires, which are key tenets of stoic philosophy.

• Egyptian philosopher Plotinus, who lived in the 3rd century AD. Plotinus was also heavily influenced by Neoplatonism, but he drew on elements of Stoicism in his work as well. For example, Plotinus emphasized the importance of cultivating inner peace and detachment from external events, which are also key tenets of stoic philosophy. 

Additionally, Nigerian philosopher Sophie Oluwole has written extensively about the connections between African philosophy and Stoicism, arguing that there are many similarities between the two traditions.

So, you may ask yourself with all this aforementioned insight, what role does stoicism play in modern day society?

1. It creates personal development where many people today turn to stoicism as a way to improve their mental health and wellbeing. The focus on mindfulness and self-reflection can help individuals better understand their own thoughts and emotions, leading to greater emotional resilience and self-control. 
2. It establishes leadership because leaders who embrace stoicism are often better equipped to handle difficult situations and make tough decisions, as they are able to maintain a clear-headed, rational approach to problem-solving. 
3. It adopts ethics linked to ethical behavior. Its emphasis on moral virtue and the importance of living in accordance with nature can provide a foundation for ethical decision-making in modern society. 
4. It provides the ability of coping with adversity which can help individuals cope with the challenges of modern life. By learning to accept and endure difficult situations, individuals can develop greater resilience and adaptability, helping them to overcome adversity and achieve their goals.

Writers can therefore incorporate stoic principles into their work in various ways by: 

• Self-reflection and introspection: writers can apply this principle by taking the time to reflect on their own thoughts and emotions, and by exploring their own personal philosophy and worldview. 
• Applying rationality: writers can apply this principle by approaching their work with a clear and objective mindset, avoiding emotional reactions and focusing on what is within their control. 
• Acceptance: stoicism teaches the importance of accepting what is outside of our control. Writers can apply this principle by recognizing that they cannot control how readers will respond to their work, and by focusing on the process of writing rather than the outcome.
• Development of resilience and perseverance: by embracing the idea that difficulties and setbacks are a natural part of life, writers can approach their work with greater determination and endurance in the face of challenges. 
• Incorporating virtues: writers can incorporate stoic virtues such as wisdom, courage, and justice into their work. For example, they can explore ethical issues in their writing, subject matter or incorporate themes of personal growth and self-improvement.

Incorporating stoic principles into one's writing can help to create work that is both meaningful and impactful, while also promoting personal growth and resilience especially within the self-help genre. There is a plethora of fertile stoic quotes and principles that have the ability to send shockwaves to inspire your readers. After all, what worth is there in writing if your message doesn’t light up a spark.

Overall, stoicism can provide valuable guidance for individuals seeking to improve their personal and professional lives as its principles continue to resonate with many people in modern day society.

As St. Augustine of Hippo once wrote: “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”