Ask Stoics source guide · Stoic Philosophy
Reputation and Criticism in Stoic Philosophy
Stoic philosophy offers a distinct perspective on reputation and criticism, urging us to differentiate between external opinions and the internal character of our actions. It emphasizes that true good and evil reside within our will, not in the judgments of others. By focusing on what is within our control, we can cultivate a steadfast inner state, regardless of how we are perceived by the world. This approach helps us navigate public opinion without compromising our ethical integrity or peace of mind. Ask Stoics filters its AI guide to cited source passages and is not impersonating the historical author.
On this page you will get a clear explanation, a way to examine the idea, exact evidence from public-domain Stoic texts, and links for continuing the study.
The Locus of Good and Evil
Stoic teaching asserts that good and evil are located solely within the will. This means that external factors, including the opinions and criticisms of others, are indifferent and do not inherently possess moral value.
Understanding this distinction is crucial for maintaining inner tranquility. If good and evil are in the will, then external praise or blame cannot truly affect one's moral standing or inner state. They are outside our control.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 2.16
Indifference to External Opinion
Things independent of the will, such as reputation, wealth, or health, are considered neither good nor evil. They are merely opportunities for the will to act virtuously or not.
Therefore, whether one is praised or criticized by others falls into the category of things indifferent. It is not the praise or criticism itself that matters, but how one chooses to respond to it.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 2.16
The Nature of Praise
Praise is described as a matter of the mind, where speech merely publishes what the mind has conceived. To judge someone worthy of praise is itself an act of praise.
However, popular approval can corrupt arts and studies. When praise is sought for its own sake, it can lead to a deviation from true excellence and integrity in one's craft or actions.
Sources: Seneca, Moral Letters to Lucilius 102.16
The Corrupting Influence of Popular Approval
Seeking popular approval can be detrimental, as it often leads to a compromise of principles. The desire for external validation can overshadow the pursuit of genuine virtue and skill.
This pursuit of external acclaim can corrupt oratory and other studies that rely on public reception. It shifts the focus from intrinsic quality to extrinsic popularity, which is not a reliable measure of worth.
Sources: Seneca, Moral Letters to Lucilius 102.16
Honorable Actions vs. Glorious Reputation
The Stoic concept of what is honorable is distinct from what is merely glorious by common custom. True honor is rooted in virtue, not in public acclaim or reputation.
Some philosophers, like Epicurus, are described as not understanding this distinction, equating the honorable with what is accounted glorious by common custom, rather than an intrinsic moral quality.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 2.15
Focusing on What You Control
If you have studied and practiced in certain areas, you will improve in them. If you have not, you will remain the same. This applies to understanding what is within your control.
Therefore, one should focus on cultivating the will and making proper judgments, rather than being swayed by external opinions or criticisms, which are outside the sphere of one's control.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 2.16
What the primary texts say
These excerpts keep their work and exact locator so you can check the claim in context rather than accepting a detached quotation.
“Where is the good? In the will. Where is the evil? In the will. Where is neither of them? In those things which are independent of the will.”
“Again, as I have said, praise is a matter of the mind rather than of the speech; for speech brings out the praise that the mind has conceived, and publishes it forth to the attention of the many. To judge a man worthy of praise, is to praise him.”
“Nothing has corrupted oratory and all other studies that depend on hearing so much as popular approval.”
Frequently asked questions
How do Stoics view external criticism?
Stoics consider external criticism as an indifferent, meaning it is neither good nor evil in itself. It is outside of our control and does not affect our moral character, which resides in our will.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 2.16
Why is popular approval potentially harmful?
Popular approval can be harmful because it can corrupt one's pursuits, shifting focus from intrinsic quality to external validation. This can lead to a compromise of principles and true excellence.
Sources: Seneca, Moral Letters to Lucilius 102.16
What is the Stoic definition of 'honorable'?
For Stoics, what is honorable is rooted in virtue and is distinct from what is merely glorious by common custom. It is an intrinsic moral quality, not dependent on external recognition.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 2.15
How can I improve my response to criticism?
Improvement comes from practice. By consistently studying and applying the principle that good and evil are in the will, you can train yourself to respond to criticism with proper judgment.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 2.16
Continue with Ask Stoics
Bring one of these source-grounded questions into the app:
- How can I distinguish between constructive criticism and mere opinion?
- What practices can help me remain indifferent to external praise or blame?
- How do I ensure my actions are truly honorable, not just popular?
- Can you give me an example of how focusing on my will helps with reputation?