The Roles and Duties of a Citizen as Assigned by Fate

The Timeless Wisdom of Stoic Philosophy

In a world increasingly divided by political strife and social unrest, the wisdom of ancient philosophers may seem outdated—yet, Stoic philosophy holds the key to healing our fractured societies. What if the secret to modern civic harmony lies in the teachings of a Roman emperor and a former slave?

In this essay I argue that Stoic philosophy, particularly the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Hierocles, provides a timeless guide for fulfilling our civic duties. By embracing Stoic virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance, we can contribute to both our personal ethical growth and the attainment of societal harmony, even in the face of modern political divisions and social unrest.

The Interconnectedness of Humanity: Marcus Aurelius and the Moral Imperative

Marcus Aurelius highlights our intrinsic interconnectedness by emphasizing that true contentment arises from recognizing ourselves as part of a greater whole: ‘By remembering then that I am part of a whole, I shall be content with everything that happens…’ (Kochon, 2023). This notion of interconnectedness is central to the Stoic understanding of civic duties, as it implies that our actions are not isolated but contribute to the well-being of the entire community. The Stoic approach to civic engagement emphasizes that our personal flourishing is deeply intertwined with the well-being of the community. By viewing ourselves as part of a larger societal fabric, we are encouraged to promote collective harmony and justice.

Drawing from this profound wisdom, we see how Aurelius’s insights serve as a timeless reminder of our inherent connection to the broader community and the moral imperative to contribute selflessly to the common good. His words emphasize that true contentment arises from recognizing our place within the larger societal framework and committing ourselves to actions that benefit others. This philosophical grounding leads us to consider our own roles within society. As citizens, each of us has roles and duties assigned by fate, and fulfilling these duties virtuously is paramount for a practicing Stoic.

Rational Nature and Civic Duty

In his book, “Beyond the Individual, Stoic Philosophy on Community and Connection,” Will Johncock further emphasizes and reinforces this point: “When we act rationally as universal constituents, we are likewise conscious that our rational nature is interconnected and shared with our fellow humans, which requires incorporating the associated view that ‘the whole is more important than the part, and the city than the citizen” (Johncock, 2023). Johncock’s insights highlight the Stoic belief that our rational nature is inherently communal, urging us to prioritize the collective good over individual interests. This perspective aligns with the Stoic view of fate-ordained roles and civic duties, emphasizing that active participation in community life is essential, making civic responsibility an important aspect of Stoic practice.

The Practice of Mindful Decision-Making

Consider the daily decisions we make, from how we spend our money to how we interact with others. A Stoic approach might involve taking a moment before making a purchase to ask, ‘Is this necessary?’ or ‘Will this contribute to my well-being or the well-being of others?’ This practice of mindful decision-making, grounded in wisdom, can lead to more intentional and meaningful actions that benefit both ourselves and our communities.

For example, in Discourses, Epictetus argues that a true citizen does not act out of self-interest but instead, like a hand or foot that understands its role in the natural order, directs all actions towards contributing to the common good: ‘Now, what does the title “citizen” mean? In this role, a person never acts in his own interest or thinks of himself alone…’ (Discourses 2.10.4). This metaphor is crucial in illustrating the Stoic conviction that individual and communal well-being are inseparable. By comparing the citizen to a body part that functions for the benefit of the whole organism, Epictetus conveys that civic duties are not optional but essential for maintaining societal health. The Stoic approach to civic duty, therefore, demands that we align our personal actions with the needs of the community, recognizing that any failure to do so harms not just others but ourselves as well. This understanding directly informs the Stoic emphasis on virtues like justice and temperance, which guide us in making decisions that prioritize the common good over personal gain.

Stoicism values not just personal growth but the welfare of the entire society which is something practicing Stoics learn through the idea of Oikeiôsis.

Oikeiôsis, Civic Responsibility, and the Concentric Circles

Oikeiôsis, variously translated as ‘appropriation,’ ‘familiarization,’ ‘affiliation’, or ‘affinity,’ literally means the process of ‘making something one’s own’ (Seadley, 1998). It refers to our natural affinity for others and underscores our intrinsic connection to the community. This natural process of self-awareness and affinity begins with an individual’s well-being and extends to the recognition of other rational beings and the broader community. This extension leads to the development of moral and social virtues, illustrating the Stoic progression from self-awareness and self-care to broader social responsibility.

Stoic philosophers like Hierocles (2nd century CE) expanded this idea to include practical civic duties. He explains the notion of oikeiôsis by employing the metaphor of concentric circles. These circles represent the various levels of human relationships and moral obligations, starting with the individual’s mind and expanding outward to include immediate family, extended family, the local community, neighboring towns, the nation, and ultimately, the entire human population. Hierocles instructed us to bring these circles closer to the center, thereby including more people in our care and concern. This philosophy advocates for civic responsibility, where personal development is intertwined with societal welfare.

Kathekonta: Hierocles’ Concept of Appropriate Acts

Building on this foundational concept, Hierocles developed the theory of “appropriate acts” kathekonta, an action for a particular animal in a particular context. (Sellers, 2014), which aligns with nature’s principles. These acts, inspired by the behavior of animals caring for their offspring, illustrate that all duties derive from natural principles. By engaging in actions that are in line with reason and nature, individuals can cultivate virtue and promote social harmony, ultimately benefiting the overall well-being of society.

The Role of Virtues in Civic Engagement

This principle can be directly connected to civic engagement, where practicing Stoics can apply the theory of “appropriate acts” in real-world scenarios, putting them in an environment where they can cultivate excellence in character. This can be achieved by participating in our communities and, for some, being engaged in politics where Stoic practitioners can apply their principles of practical wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance to contribute positively to their communities and society at large.

For example, wisdom is not solely gained through personal contemplation, but also through the exchange of knowledge and perspectives with others. Through their involvement with communities, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of different cultures, beliefs, and experiences, which enriches their own wisdom.

Courage is often demonstrated in societal challenges. Adversity provides opportunities for individuals to showcase their fortitude in their beliefs and resilience against ignorance and wrongdoing. Taking a stand on civic issues thus serves as a platform for facing challenges together, promoting unity and shared purpose. Taking a public stand against wrongdoing driven by echo chamber-induced groupthink takes courage. Courage is like a sturdy tree in a dense forest, standing tall and unwavering, showing individuals the strength to resist the pressure of herd mentality and remain rooted in their principles.

Having explored the role of courage in confronting societal challenges, we now turn to justice, which is deeply rooted in our interactions within society. Civic engagement allows individuals to advocate for fairness and challenge systemic inequalities, thus reinforcing the Stoic commitment to justice. Justice is fundamentally connected to individuals’ interactions within society. Through engaging in civic activities, individuals can advocate for policies that uphold fairness and challenge systemic inequalities. This active participation reinforces their commitment to justice and contributes to a more harmonious and ethical society. In essence, civic engagement becomes a platform where the principles of justice are not merely theoretical ideals but practical realities that shape the collective well-being of society.

Lastly, temperance, which refers to the practice of moderation, self-control, and decorum, holds great significance in the realm of social dynamics. When individuals engage with other members of society, they are able to exercise temperance in a range of situations, such as conflict resolution, responsible decision-making, and nurturing healthy relationships. By actively participating in their civic duties, individuals are presented with numerous opportunities to demonstrate proper decorum in various scenarios.

Stoicism and Fate: Embracing Our Roles in Society

Therefore, practicing Stoics should view civic engagement as a natural extension of their commitment to virtue and rational action in whatever role fate has assigned them.

Stoic philosophy teaches that while fate governs the universe, our true power lies in controlling our reactions to life’s events. As Epictetus says, “Don’t seek to have things happen as you want but want the things that happen to happen as they do; you’ll be going with the flow.” (Stephens, Jun 15 2023)

What this means is that fate is an inherent aspect of our existence, and we must accept it with equanimity. Instead of avoiding situations in our social orbit, we should embrace them as opportunities for growth. In civic duties, this means recognizing our role in society and using our rational faculties to influence and improve it. As we know, when practicing Stoics are engaged in civic duties, what matters most is the sincere intention to do good, not the results.

Each day, fate offers opportunities to contribute to our communities, whether through volunteering, participating in clean-ups, helping those in need, advocating for noble causes, supporting those running for public office, or running for public office ourselves.

The situations and circumstances we encounter in life determine our roles. Epictetus puts it this way: “Remember that you are an actor in a play, of whatever kind the director wants… If he wants you to play the part of a disabled person, public official, private citizen, or beggar, perform even this part gracefully. Because this is your task, to play the assigned role well, but another selects it.” (Stephens, Jun 15 2023)

Inarguably, all individuals who adhere to Stoicism are active citizens in the grand play of life. This position bears the responsibility of actively contributing to their communities and society in a significant manner. Consequently, Stoics are encouraged to take part in social and environmental initiatives, recognizing that engaging in public matters is a crucial duty of a morally upright person, as long as it coincides with the pursuit of a virtuous life.

The Critique of Stoicism: Individual Autonomy versus Communal Responsibility

While Stoic philosophy emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one’s civic duties as part of a larger, interconnected community, some critics might argue that this focus on predetermined roles and communal obligations can undermine individual freedom and personal autonomy. In a modern context, where individual rights and personal liberties are highly valued, the Stoic emphasis on fate and duty could be seen as encouraging conformity and suppressing personal desires and ambitions. Critics might contend that such an approach risks overlooking the importance of individual self-expression and the pursuit of personal goals that may not align with societal expectations or predetermined roles. Additionally, the Stoic acceptance of fate might be interpreted as a passive approach to life, potentially discouraging active resistance against social injustices or oppressive systems, which could be necessary for societal progress.

However, Stoicism does not advocate for blind conformity or passive acceptance of injustice. Instead, it teaches that true freedom is found in living virtuously, regardless of external circumstances. By embracing our roles within the community with wisdom and courage, we are not surrendering our autonomy but rather exercising our highest form of rational agency. Stoicism empowers individuals to act in accordance with reason and nature, which often involves challenging societal norms and injustices when they conflict with virtue. The Stoic approach to civic duty, therefore, balances the tension between individual autonomy and communal responsibility, ultimately fostering a society where both personal and collective well-being are pursued harmoniously.

Applying Stoic Virtues in Modern Civic Life

This commitment to virtuous living extended beyond personal reflection and into the realm of public action. Ancient Stoics were far from mere theorists; they embodied their philosophy through active community engagement, viewing such involvement as an essential duty. As Pierre Hadot notes: “A philosopher in antiquity was not someone who wrote philosophical books, but someone who led a philosophical life. Philosophy did not stop with pen and ink: they were not content merely to write about courage, and they did not shrink from their duty of serving the interest of the state.” (Hadot, 1992).

Unfortunately, today, we see intense political divisions, fear, and populist leaders undermining democracy. These unfortunate circumstances have led to a weakening of democratic principles and values that are crucial for a functioning society. The rise of intense political divisions has created a climate of hostility and polarization, where compromise and rational discourse are often overshadowed by partisan interests. This has further deepened societal divisions, making it increasingly difficult to find common ground and work towards collective solutions.

The current state of intense political divisions, fear, and the rise of populist leaders poses a significant threat to democracy. These trends contradict Stoicism’s core principles of community and appropriate action.

In a world increasingly marred by division and unrest, the ancient wisdom of Stoic philosophy offers a profound and practical framework for civic engagement. By adopting the Stoic virtues of wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance, we do more than simply fulfill our roles as citizens—we actively contribute to the creation of a more harmonious and ethically sound society.

Wisdom guides us to make thoughtful, informed decisions that benefit not just ourselves but the community as a whole. Through wisdom, we recognize the interconnectedness of all individuals, leading to actions that reflect the greater good. Courage empowers us to stand firm in our convictions, even in the face of adversity or societal pressures. It is this courage that enables us to challenge injustice, resist the lure of populism, and advocate for the principles of democracy. Justice, deeply rooted in Stoic thought, reminds us that our actions should always aim to uphold fairness and equality. Civic engagement becomes the arena where justice is not just an abstract ideal but a lived reality, manifesting in policies and practices that promote societal well-being. Lastly, temperance ensures that our pursuit of the common good is balanced by moderation and self-control, preventing the excesses that can lead to division and discord.

Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of Stoic Citizenship

Stoicism, far from being a passive acceptance of fate, demands active participation in the life of the community. It teaches us that our roles, though assigned by fate, are opportunities for moral growth and societal contribution. By embracing these roles with intentionality and virtue, we exercise true freedom—the freedom to live in accordance with reason and nature, which often means challenging societal norms when they conflict with ethical principles.

Critics may argue that Stoicism’s emphasis on predetermined roles and communal obligations risks stifling individual autonomy. However, Stoicism does not call for blind conformity; rather, it calls for a rational examination of our duties and a deliberate commitment to virtuous action. By balancing personal autonomy with our responsibilities to others, Stoicism offers a path that honors both individual and collective flourishing.

As modern practitioners of Stoicism, we are urged to apply these virtues in our daily lives, recognizing that each action, no matter how small, contributes to the fabric of society. Whether through community service, political involvement, or simple acts of kindness, our civic duties become the stage on which we cultivate virtue and promote the well-being of all.

Ultimately, the true measure of our lives will be found not in personal achievements alone but in the impact we have on those around us. The Stoics remind us that philosophy is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a way of life—one that calls us to live virtuously, engage actively in our communities, and contribute meaningfully to the common good. By doing so, we not only fulfill our roles as citizens but also ensure the enduring health and harmony of the societies we are a part of.

Works Cited

• Hadot, P. (1992). The Inner Citadel: The Meditation of Marcus Aurelius . In T. Pierre Hadot (M. Chase, The Inner Citadel: The meditation of Marcus Aurelius (p. 61). Harvard University Press.
• Johncock, W. (2023). Beyond the Individual, Stoic Philosophy on Community and Connection. In Beyond the Individual, Stoic Philosophy on Community and Connection. Pickwick Publications.
• Kochon, D. R. (2023). Meditations: The new translation. Decameron Books.
• Seadley, D. (1998). Stoicism . Retrieved from Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy : https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/thematic/stoicism/v-1/sections/oikeiosis
• Sellers, J. (2014). Stocism. In J. Sellers, Stocism. Routledge.
• Stephens, S. A. (Jun 15 2023). Epictetus’s ‘Enchiridion A New Translation and Guide to Stoic Ethics. Bloomsbury Publishing.