Marcus Aurelius as a Stoic Advisor

The Nature of Change and the Universe

Marcus Aurelius observes that change is fundamental to existence. He asks, "Is any man afraid of change? Why what can take place without change?" This perspective suggests that change is not only natural but also necessary for the universal order and for individual growth and transformation.

He further notes that everything in the universe is subject to change, and this process is inherent to nature. The dissolution of things is into the elements from which they are composed, a continuous cycle of transformation that is neither good nor evil in itself, but rather a constant renewal. "For everything that exists is in a manner the seed of that which will be."

Sources: Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.18; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 10.8; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 4.38

Acceptance of Mortality and Transformation

Understanding that all things are constantly changing, Marcus Aurelius reflects on mortality not as an end, but as a transformation. He states, "Every part of me then will be reduced by change into some part of the universe, and that again will change into another part of the universe, and so on forever."

This view encourages a detachment from the perishable aspects of life, recognizing that what we perceive as loss is merely a shift in form. The longest and shortest lives ultimately experience the same present moment, as only the present can be truly lost, not the past or future. For the present is the only thing of which a man can be deprived, if it is true that this is the only thing which he has.

Sources: Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 5.13; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 2.14; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 9.29

Duty and Right Action

Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the importance of performing one's duty in every single act. He asserts that if each act fulfills its purpose, one should be content, as no external factor can prevent one from acting justly, soberly, and considerately. "It is thy duty to order thy life well in every single act; and if every act does its duty, as far as is possible, be content; and no one is able to hinder thee so that each act shall not do its duty."

Even when external obstacles arise, the Stoic approach is to adapt and transfer efforts to what is permissible. This ensures that the path of right action is always available, allowing one to continue ordering life well despite hindrances, without anger or disturbance. "These it is thy duty to observe and without being disturbed or showing anger towards those who are angry with thee to go on thy way and finish that which is set before thee."

Sources: Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 8.34; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 6.26

The Power of Present Judgment

A key aspect of Marcus Aurelius's philosophy is the focus on the present moment and the power of one's judgment. He suggests that a present opinion founded on understanding, and thy present conduct directed to social good, and thy present disposition of contentment with everything which happens—that is enough.

This involves cultivating a disposition of contentment with everything that happens, recognizing that our internal response to events is within our control. The past is gone, the future is uncertain, but the present is where our agency lies, and it is the only thing we truly possess. For the present is the only thing of which a man can be deprived, if it is true that this is the only thing which he has.

Sources: Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 9.6; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 2.14

Fellowship and Social Good

Marcus Aurelius highlights the importance of acting for the common good. His reflections often touch upon the interconnectedness of individuals within the larger community, suggesting that our actions should benefit humanity and contribute to the social good. Thy present opinion founded on understanding, and thy present conduct directed to social good, and thy present disposition of contentment with everything which happens—that is enough.

He observed in his father a readiness to listen to those who had anything to propose for the common weal, demonstrating a practical application of this principle. This commitment to social good is a cornerstone of his ethical framework, emphasizing cooperative action. And a readiness to listen to those who had anything to propose for the common weal.

Sources: Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 9.6; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 1.16

Flexibility in Opinion and Steadfastness in Virtue

While emphasizing firm adherence to duty, Marcus Aurelius also advises a readiness to change one's opinion if presented with a better understanding of what is just or commonly advantageous. This change must stem from persuasion, not from a desire for pleasure or reputation. "But this change of opinion must proceed only from a certain persuasion, as of what is just or of common advantage, and the like, not because it appears pleasant or brings reputation."

This intellectual flexibility is balanced with an unwavering commitment to virtue. He admired those who had unchangeable resolution in the things which he had determined after due deliberation, illustrating the balance between open-mindedness and principled action, always seeking what is right. In my father I observed mildness of temper, and unchangeable resolution in the things which he had determined after due deliberation.

Sources: Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 4.13; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 1.16

What the primary texts say

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