Manual of Reformed Stoicism

Stoicism has been surging in popularity, for the simple reason that this ancient Greco-Roman philosophy has helped countless people in times of turmoil, social upheaval, or simply with the standard vicissitudes of human existence. However, a philosophy that was first articulated 24 centuries ago may be in need of some kind of update, to take into consideration modern sensitivities, not to mention advancements in both science and philosophy. Piotr Stankiewicz offers just one such update, what he calls "reformed" Stoicism, a term inspired by the similarly intentioned reformed Christianity and Judaism. It's a bold attempt, which will no doubt be controversial and inspire rebuttals, improvements, and alternative offerings. Which has been in the spirit of Stoicism from the very beginning. Philosophies are not judged by whether they are "true," but by whether they are coherent and -- especially -- useful. Let the discussion begin!

Prof. Dr. Massimo Pigliucci

The Graduate Center, CUNY