There are many reasons why the world needs more stoic men, but lack of self-control, impatience, desperation, and unnecessary attachment to material things top the list.
The world has always had bouts of difficult times and good times and will continue to have. After all, life is made up of ups and downs.
Life itself is not generous to a lot of people and that is why it is good to be prepared and develop a thick skin for whatever negativity life throws at you.
The majority of people seem to break completely into pieces when they face average adversities.
Related: The Unwavering Virtues of Stoicism
The young generation is so vulnerable that the only situations they can lean in on and identify with are easy situations and it is not getting better.
With the internet age still at the fledgling level, the world will see a completely broken generation that will be physically, mentally, and emotionally comatose before long if things remain the same.
These are the reasons why the world needs more stoic men than what the world is breeding.
In this post, we are going to examine how the world is running out of patient, honourable, and courageous men, and how it affects societies and the need for Stoicism to be embraced.
A Quick Peek into the Meaning of Stoicism
Stoicism is a philosophy that has its origin in ancient Greece and was embraced in ancient Rome.
It teaches that individuals can find inner peace and happiness by accepting what they cannot control and focusing on what they can control.
According to Stoicism, the key to a fulfilling life is to cultivate virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and self-control, and to live in accordance with nature.
Stoicism emphasizes the importance of reason and rationality and encourages individuals to use their intellect to overcome emotions and negative thoughts.
It teaches that external events do not define a person’s happiness and that one’s perception and interpretation of events are what matter.
These principles have gradually eluded the world as there are more insecure, less-resilient men who crumble in the face of adversity, and this is one of the reasons why the world needs more stoic men.
Impacts of Lack of Stoicism on the World
The lack of Stoicism in the world can have significant negative impacts on individuals and society as a whole.
Men are still the rallying point for morality, self-control, courage, honesty, and other good virtues in life because they are the religious leaders, and occupy vantage positions in government.
So, determine to a large extent the tempo of the behaviour of society through the kind of leadership they provide.
Stoic leaders will provide sound and quality leadership driven by the four virtues of Stoicism which are the pivot for safe living for everyone.
This is why the world needs more stoic men in leadership and other sensitive areas of society.
Here are some of the consequences of the lack of Stoicism:
1. Inhuman Policies by Governments
On a societal level, the lack of stoicism in political leaders can lead to aggressive foreign policy decisions and irrational responses to crises in many countries of the world.
Governments that lack Stoicism may ignore the needs of the poor and vulnerable populations, focusing only on the interests of the wealthy and powerful.
A good example is Nigeria, and most African countries, where the Government prioritizes the wealthy to the teeming poor masses.
This can result in policies that perpetuate inequality and oppress those who are already marginalized.
Inhumane policies like discrimination, torture, and genocide are often the result of a lack of Stoicism.
Related: 4 Myths & Misconceptions About Stoicism Debunked
These policies dehumanize individuals and treat them as objects rather than as human beings deserving of dignity and respect.
Governments that lack Stoicism may also be more likely to engage in corporate greed and environmental destruction, ignoring the consequences of their actions on future generations.
In contrast, governments that embrace Stoicism can create policies that are just and fair, caring for the well-being of all individuals.
Stoicism encourages leaders to focus on what is good for the common good, rather than their own self-interest.
This can lead to policies that prioritize health care, education, environmental protection, and social justice.
2. Crime as a Result of Emotional Instability
Without Stoic principles, more people including men would struggle to regulate their emotions and deal with difficult situations.
This can lead to emotional instability, anxiety, and depression which when considered on a global scale can be a major problem.
Because of the dwindling economies, people are more impatient and irritable, driving them to crimes and other vices.
In Brazil, gangs openly rob banks and motorists on the expressway in high-risk situations as a result of mental and emotional instability.
When this is on a global scale, it becomes a security problem.
Also in the US, there have been incidences of shootouts by teenagers including in schools and neighbourhoods as a result of racism, driven by emotional instability.
If these kids had stoic parents, they would have been taught tolerance, self-control and other virtues of life.
3. Lack of Perseverance
Without the ability to accept what they cannot control and focus on what they can control, individuals may struggle to adapt to change and overcome obstacles.
A lack of stoicism makes people lose hope in legitimate ways of living which are considered long and tiring.
They resort to illegitimate ways of making a living, including robbery, kidnapping, and killings.
A good example is young people engaging in cybercrimes, kidnapping, fraud, and other quick ways of making a living.
A Stoic personality will persevere, endure and eke a legitimate living no matter how long it takes.
4. Lack of Self-control
Lack of self-control refers to the inability or difficulty in managing one’s impulses, emotions, actions, and desires.
It often results in indulging in instant gratification without thinking about the long-term consequences of those actions.
Also, people who lack self-control find it challenging to resist temptation, delay gratification, and make rational choices.
They may struggle with addictive behaviours, overeating, overspending, procrastination, or impulsive acts that can harm themselves or others.
The lack of self-control can negatively impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships, finances, health, and career.
When more people lack self-control in the world, there will be problems. Developing a Stoic personality would curb this on a large scale.
5. Self-centeredness
Self-centeredness is the personality trait of being excessively focused on one’s personal needs, interests, and desires to the point where they become oblivious to the needs and feelings of others.
Individuals with self-centered behaviour often behave in a way that shows little concern for others and the impact of their actions on them.
The consequences of self-centeredness can be dire and can have severe impacts on the individual, their relationships, and society as a whole.
A good example is leaders of governments making policies that only benefit the elite in society and neglecting the already marginalized people.
Here are some other ways selfishness plays out in society and the world at large:
- Relationship Issues: When a person is self-centered, they prioritize their needs above those of others, leading to a lack of empathy and understanding towards others. This can harm relationships as it causes individuals to think only about themselves and disregard the needs of their partner, friends, or family members.
- Lack of Team Spirit: In a team environment, self-centered people may prioritize their personal interests above the team’s interests, leading to a lack of cooperation and collaboration. Such individuals may often seek recognition and personal gain instead of working towards the team’s overall goals, leading to a lack of team spirit and reduced productivity.
- Negative Impact on Society: Self-centeredness can lead to a sense of entitlement that stems from a belief that the person deserves more than others, leading to greed, selfishness, and a lack of civic responsibility. This, in turn, can cause the individual to disregard societal well-being, leading to increased poverty and suffering in society.
- Emotionally Unstable: Self-centered individuals often struggle with controlling their emotions, especially when things do not go their way. They may become manipulative or aggressive, leading to the breakdown of their relationships and a lack of trust from others.
- Lack of Fulfillment: Being self-centered can lead to an unfulfilled life as personal accomplishments and possessions often do not provide the satisfaction that comes from social relationships, contribution to society, and overall well-being.
6. Lack of Purpose
If one lacks stoicism, one may struggle to find a sense of purpose and fulfillment in life.
They may be more prone to negative emotions such as anxiety, fear, anger, and sadness when encountering setbacks, failures, or hardships.
They may also lack the motivation to pursue long-term goals and may feel lost or aimless in their actions.
This lack of purpose can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction, confusion, and disconnection from oneself and others.
Here are reasons why more people in the world are not having a purposeful life:
- Lack Of Guidance: Many individuals may not have access to mentors or role models who can provide guidance and support in finding a sense of purpose as a result of the dwindling morality in the world. This can make it difficult for individuals to identify their strengths and passions and pursue meaningful goals.
- Lack Of Community: The breakdown of traditional social structures and the rise of social media can lead to a sense of disconnection from others and a lack of social support. This can make it difficult for individuals to find a sense of purpose that is tied to a larger community or cause.
- Technology: The constant distractions and stimuli provided by technology can make it difficult for individuals to focus on meaningful pursuits or engage in introspection. This can lead to a lack of self-awareness and difficulty in finding a sense of purpose.
- Materialism: The focus on material possessions and consumer culture can lead individuals to prioritize the pursuit of wealth and status over more meaningful pursuits. This can result in a sense of emptiness or dissatisfaction, as material possessions alone are not enough to provide a sense of purpose.
Reasons Why the World Needs More Stoic Men
One of the reasons why some argue that more men need to be stoic is that traditional gender roles often dictate that men should be emotionally strong and unflinching in the face of adversity.
Many researchers suggest that men are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems because of the societal pressure to conform to these gender norms.
This pressure begins right from the early stage of life and dominates the life of man, making him not live to his full potential.
Therefore, stoicism can be seen as a way to counterbalance these expectations and provide a more positive model of masculinity.
Also, the more stoic men the world has, the more the principles of stoicism are inculcated in the new generation to halt the slippery slope of lack of resilience the world is going through.
Stoicism is also a valuable tool for personal development and growth as it emphasizes the importance of developing a sense of purpose in life and taking responsibility for one’s own choices and actions which are also lacking in the world today.
In a world increasingly defined by chaos, stress, and uncertainty, stoicism offers a way to navigate through life with resilience and inner peace.
Stoicism is the Answer Not the Problem
Stoicism is actually the answer to weak masculinity and every other negative feeling or anxiety surrounding life.
As a tough personality, you almost have everything figured out, including the anxiety surrounding death. You think past the present and imagine what other situations would be.
When you prepare your mind for the worst, you won’t be surprised or taken unaware by situations and events.
Also Read: How To Be A Real Man At Home And Social Circles
It’s okay if things align in your favour and it’s still okay if they don’t. The fact is you are never going to be disappointed because you already developed a thick skin to absorb every shock.
Now, some people could bring on the argument of faith. I have argued with a lot of people about the stoic personality being against faith.
Being Stoic Does Not Mean a Lack of Faith
Not having faith according to religion has nothing to do with being stoic. You might be a stoic man or woman and still exercise your faith.
Faith is believing or having hope in things not seen, while stoicism is many things including having hope and believing in things not seen but also preparing yourself for the worst.
I remember before my dad passed, I had already prepared my mind for the day because I know it must come.
There is no amount of faith you would have for your dad or senior loved ones not to die someday.
So, bracing up for the difficult moment is all you can do.
Life balances when you attend to both opposing sides. You cannot only focus on the easy side of life because you find the other side uncomfortable.
Here are some reasons why the world should embrace stoicism.
1. To Counterbalance Fragile and Toxic Masculinity
One of the reasons why the world needs more stoic men is to counterbalance the fragility and toxicity in men.
Just as described above, toxic masculinity is when masculinity becomes overzealous or threatened and so tries to redeem itself in ways that would be harmful to itself and others.
Toxic and fragile masculinities thrive on jealousy, low self-esteem, lack of courage, and entitlement to perpetrate their toxicity.
When more men are stoic, the virtues of Stoicism are practiced which will improve tolerance, resilience, courage, acceptance of fate, and living within their means.
Also, Stoicism promotes empathy and compassion towards others. This can help individuals recognize and value the perspectives of others, rather than seeing them as threats or obstacles.
2. Raising Stoic Children
Another reason why the world needs more stoic men is raising stoic children.
Men as the head of the family units have the responsibility of inculcating good morals, courage, resilience, and general good behaviours in their household.
The family as the nucleus and smallest unit of society has a big influence in society and the world at large.
When more stoic children are raised, the world would become stoic.
3. To Promote Resilience in the World
Another reason why the world needs more stoic men is resilience.
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and adapt to change. This resilience is particularly important in today’s fast-paced world, where change is constant, and uncertainty is the norm.
The stoic philosophy encourages individuals to focus on what they can control and accept what they cannot.
By embracing this mindset, individuals can develop a greater sense of resilience and understand that you win some and lose some.
When more men are stoic, it would have a domino effect and trickle down the chain. They are more resilient and can withstand adversities, and are resistant to humiliating situations.
2. To Encourages Self-Reflection
One of the central tenets of stoicism is self-reflection. By spending time reflecting on our thoughts, behaviours, and actions, we can gain insight into what is driving our decisions and improve our emotional smartness.
Self-reflection can lead to greater clarity of thought, better decision-making, and a more fulfilling life when more people in the world imbibe the virtues of stoicism.
And when this is achieved on a wide scale, it can foster good behaviour, better control of impulsivity, and lack of self-control affecting the world.
3. To Promote the Framework for Moral Living
Living a moral and ethical life is essential for personal growth and even more beneficial for societal advancement and well-being.
Stoicism provides a framework for moral living that is based on virtues such as courage, justice, and wisdom.
By living according to these virtues, individuals can improve their own lives and contribute to the betterment of society and the world at large.
Here are ways that Stoicism can provide guidance for ethical behaviour for a better society:
- Virtue Ethics: Stoicism emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous life, where individuals strive to embody qualities such as wisdom, courage, justice, and compassion. This provides a clear framework for ethical behavior, as individuals can evaluate their actions based on whether they align with these virtues.
- Rationality: Stoicism encourages individuals to use reason and logic in their decision-making, rather than being swayed by emotions or external factors. This can help individuals make ethical decisions based on a clear understanding of what is right and wrong.
- Community: Stoicism recognizes the importance of living in harmony with others and contributing to the greater good. This encourages individuals to consider the impact of their actions on others and to prioritize the well-being of the community over their own individual interests.
4. To Promote Modesty
A good reason why the world needs more stoic men is modesty. As men occupy much of leadership positions all over the world, they stand a better chance to teach modesty by leading by example.
Modesty is a principle of Stoicism and makes people have reasonable goals and desires.
Stoicism promotes modesty by encouraging individuals to have minimal desires, focus on what is within their control and accept what is outside of their control.
As most people, especially the young are looking up to their leaders, they take cues from what they do, including modesty in their wealth, behaviours and decisions.
This means that rather than constantly seeking praise or recognition for one’s accomplishments, a Stoic individual will strive to be content with their actions and personal progress.
Additionally, Stoicism emphasizes the idea that external possessions and status are temporary and do not define one’s worth as a person.
Instead, Stoic individual values their own virtues and morals, which are developed through their own choices and dedication to personal growth.
Ultimately, this focus on internal qualities rather than external achievements can lead to a more modest and grounded perspective on life and one’s place in the world.
5. Stoic personality is emotionally and socially intelligent
Stoic men are so rooted in emotional and social intelligence. That is the only way they could have a grip on their emotions.
Emotional intelligence is being familiar with your emotions and knowing how they affect you and keeping them in check.
Emotionally intelligent people do not let their emotions or feelings run amok.
On the other hand, social intelligence is being observant of people around you and having the best interactions according to your observation.
Stoic men do not project themselves too forward or eye the spotlight. They are contented in their closet while they work for what they desire.
How the World Can Cultivate Stoicism
Embracing Stoicism can be a powerful way for individuals, societies, and the world at large to cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and compassion.
Here are some ways that the world can embrace Stoicism:
1. Education
Education plays a critical role in cultivating Stoicism in the world.
By integrating Stoic principles into the curriculum, educators can help students develop a deeper understanding of the philosophy and its practical applications.
Here are some ways that education can help in cultivating Stoicism in the world:
- Teach the Basics of Stoicism: Educators can teach the basics of Stoicism, including the importance of emotional regulation, self-reflection, and the pursuit of wisdom. This can help students develop a deeper understanding of the philosophy and its practical applications.
- Encourage Critical Thinking: Educators can encourage critical thinking and rational decision-making, helping students develop the skills necessary to apply Stoic principles to real-world situations.
- Foster a Sense of Purpose: Educators can help students cultivate a sense of purpose and meaning, encouraging them to pursue a life of virtue and ethical behavior.
- Model Stoic Behavior: Educators can model Stoic behavior, demonstrating the principles of emotional regulation, self-reflection, and compassion towards others.
2. Meditation and Mindfulness Practices
Meditation and mindfulness practices can help individuals cultivate greater self-awareness and emotional regulation, which are core principles of Stoicism.
These practices can be integrated into daily routines or incorporated into workplace wellness programs.
By incorporating meditation and mindfulness practices into our daily lives, we can develop the skills necessary to live a more Stoic life.
This can help us cultivate inner resilience, emotional regulation, and compassion towards others, creating a more just, equitable, and harmonious world.
By embracing Stoicism and incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can create a better world for ourselves and those around us.
3. Stoic Communities
Building communities of individuals who are interested in Stoic philosophy can provide a supportive environment for individuals to learn from one another, share experiences, and practice Stoic principles together.
Building a Stoic community requires identifying potential members, establishing a shared vision and purpose, planning activities and events, creating a supportive environment, and utilizing technology and social media.
By working together to promote emotional regulation, self-reflection, and community-building, Stoic communities can provide individuals with a supportive environment to learn and practice Stoic principles.
Here are some steps for building a Stoic community:
- Identify Potential Members: Identify individuals who are interested in Stoicism or who may benefit from learning about Stoic principles. This can include individuals who are part of existing organizations, such as philosophy clubs or mental health support groups.
- Establish a Shared Vision and Purpose: Develop a shared vision and purpose for the Stoic community. This can include goals such as promoting emotional regulation, self-reflection, and community-building.
- Plan Activities and Events: Plan regular activities and events that align with the shared vision and purpose of the Stoic community. This can include group discussions, meditation or mindfulness practices, and community service projects.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Create a supportive environment where individuals can feel comfortable sharing their experiences and learning from one another. Encourage active listening, empathy, and compassion towards others.
- Utilize Technology and Social Media: Utilize technology and social media platforms to connect with potential members and share information about the Stoic community. This can include creating a website or social media pages, hosting virtual events, and sharing resources related to Stoicism.
4. Applying Stoicism in Daily Life
By applying Stoic principles in our daily lives, we can cultivate inner resilience, emotional regulation, and compassion towards others.
This can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that spreads Stoicism throughout the world.
Ultimately, by embracing Stoicism and applying it in our daily lives, we can contribute to the cultivation of a more just, equitable, and harmonious world.
5. Stoicism in Leadership
Leaders can incorporate Stoic principles into their decision-making and communication styles to cultivate greater emotional intelligence and promote ethical leadership.
Here are ways Stoicism can be infused in leadership:
- Focus on the Greater Good: Stoicism emphasizes the importance of focusing on the greater good, rather than personal gain. Leaders who adopt this principle can prioritize the well-being of their teams and organizations over their own interests, promoting ethical leadership.
- Leading by Example: Stoicism emphasizes the importance of leading by example, rather than simply giving orders. Leaders who model Stoic principles such as emotional regulation, humility, and empathy can inspire their teams to do the same.
- Compassionate Leadership: Stoicism emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion towards others. Leaders who adopt this principle can create a supportive and inclusive work environment, promoting employee well-being and productivity.
Conclusion
Why the world needs more Stoic are numerous. One reason is that the principles of Stoicism promote emotional stability, ethical behaviour, and a focus on the greater good.
Stoicism encourages individuals to cultivate inner resilience, self-awareness, and compassion towards others, which can lead to positive personal and societal outcomes.
In a world where emotional instability and toxic masculinity are prevalent, Stoicism offers an antidote, promoting rational thinking, emotional regulation, and empathy towards others.
By embracing Stoicism, men can cultivate the inner strength and moral character necessary to become responsible, ethical, and compassionate leaders, capable of positively impacting their communities and the world.
Through Stoicism, men can develop a sense of purpose, a moral compass, and a commitment to the greater good, fostering a more just, equitable, and harmonious world.
Therefore, the world needs more Stoic men who can help create a more compassionate, just, and prosperous world for all.
Frequently Asked Questions About Why the World Needs More Stoic Men
Why does the world need more Stoic men?
The world needs more Stoic men because Stoicism offers a framework for moral living and encourages self-reflection, emotional regulation, and compassion towards others. By embracing Stoicism, men can cultivate inner resilience, ethical behavior, and a sense of purpose, contributing to the creation of a more just, equitable, and harmonious world.
How can I cultivate Stoicism in my daily life?
You can cultivate Stoicism in your daily life by practicing emotional regulation, self-reflection, compassion towards others, and a sense of purpose. You can also read Stoic philosophy, participate in Stoic discussions or communities, and incorporate mindfulness and meditation practices into your daily routine.
Is Stoicism only for men?
No, Stoicism is not only for men. Anyone can benefit from the principles of Stoicism, regardless of gender.
Can Stoicism be helpful in a professional setting?
Yes, Stoicism can be helpful in a professional setting. By cultivating emotional regulation, self-awareness, and ethical behavior, individuals can become more effective leaders, team players, and decision-makers.
Is Stoicism a religion?
No, Stoicism is not a religion. It is a philosophy that offers a practical framework for living a meaningful and ethical life. Stoicism does not involve worship or belief in supernatural forces.
Is it possible to embrace Stoicism while still being emotionally expressive?
Yes, it is possible to embrace Stoicism while still being emotionally expressive. Stoicism does not require individuals to suppress or deny their emotions; rather, it encourages emotional regulation and rational decision-making. Embracing Stoicism can actually help individuals become more in tune with their emotions and express them in a constructive and healthy way.
Can Stoicism help combat toxic masculinity?
Yes, Stoicism can help combat toxic masculinity by encouraging self-reflection, emotional regulation, and ethical behaviour. By embracing Stoicism, individuals can cultivate a sense of empathy and compassion towards others, creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
A Personal Development Content Creator and an author. I write about life ethics and love to document and share life hacks and experiences of people to help others make good life decisions.
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