Ask Stoics source guide · Stoic Questions
Do Stoics Believe in Fate?
The Stoic view of fate is often misunderstood. It is not a passive resignation but an active engagement with the world as it is. Stoicism emphasizes understanding the natural order and aligning one's will with it, while still recognizing the sphere of human agency and moral choice. This perspective encourages acceptance of what has occurred and intentional action in the present.
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 Natural Order and Self-Preservation
Stoic philosophy begins with the premise that every living creature inherently seeks to preserve itself. This fundamental drive is given by nature and guides an animal's entire existence from birth, aiming for a state of being in accordance with nature.
Initially, this self-preservation is instinctual and confused. As an animal develops, it gradually perceives what benefits or harms it, leading to a more refined understanding of its own nature and how to thrive.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 5.9
Things According to Nature
There is a natural desire for things that are in accordance with nature. These are considered estimable, possessing a weight or value that makes them worthy of selection.
Conversely, things contrary to nature are not estimable. The Stoic framework suggests that these natural principles are the foundation upon which all subsequent ethical considerations are built.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.6; Cicero, On Ends 4.13
The Standard of Nature
The concept of 'nature' serves as a universal standard to which all things are referred. This standard resembles every nature, indicating a fundamental harmony and order in the cosmos.
This universal standard is considered the chief good, implying that living in accordance with this overarching natural order is the path to a well-lived life.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 4.13
Distinguishing What is Estimable
An estimable thing is either inherently in accordance with nature or causes something that is. This means it holds a value that makes it worthy of being chosen.
This distinction helps in evaluating actions and choices, guiding individuals toward what is truly beneficial and aligned with their rational nature.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.6
The Role of Choice and Agency
While acknowledging a natural order, Stoicism does not negate human agency. The ability to choose things that are according to nature is central to Stoic practice.
The initial principles laid down emphasize that things aligned with nature are to be chosen for their own sake, highlighting the active role of individual choice.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.6
Living in Harmony with Nature
The Stoic path involves understanding and aligning one's life with these first principles of nature. This harmony is crucial for ethical conduct and well-being.
By recognizing the natural desire for what is good and estimable, individuals can consciously direct their lives towards a state of flourishing in accordance with the cosmic order.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.6; Cicero, On Ends 4.13
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.
“Every animal loves itself, and as soon as it is born labours to preserve itself, because this is the first desire given to it by nature, to regulate its whole life, to preserve itself, and to be so disposed as it best may in accordance with nature.”
“A thing is said to be estimable: for so we may, I think, call that which is either itself in accordance with nature, or else which is the efficient cause of something of such a character that it is worthy of being selected because it has in it some weight worth appreciating, which he calls ἀχία”
“For there is no one who denies that that which is the standard to which everything is referred resembles every nature, and that is the chief…”
Frequently asked questions
Do Stoics believe everything is predetermined?
Stoicism acknowledges a causal order in nature. However, it emphasizes that our response to events, our intentions, and our present conduct remain within our sphere of choice and responsibility.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.6; Cicero, On Ends 5.9
How does 'living according to nature' relate to fate?
Living according to nature means aligning one's will and actions with the rational order of the cosmos. This involves accepting what is beyond our control while actively pursuing what is estimable and good.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.6; Cicero, On Ends 4.13
Does Stoicism encourage passive acceptance?
No, Stoicism does not advocate for passive acceptance. It encourages understanding what is in accordance with nature and actively choosing those things, while accepting what cannot be changed.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.6
What is the Stoic view on free will?
Stoicism suggests that while external events are part of a causal chain, our internal judgments, intentions, and reactions to these events are within our control and constitute our freedom.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 5.9
Continue with Ask Stoics
Bring one of these source-grounded questions into the app:
- How can I identify what is 'according to nature' in my daily life?
- What is the difference between accepting fate and being apathetic?
- How do Stoics approach difficult or unexpected events?
- Can Stoicism help me find purpose if everything is fated?