What Do Stoics Mean By “Living In Accord With Nature”?

Living "in accord with nature" is a central concept in Stoic philosophy, emphasized by its leading thinkers including Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius. It involves aligning one's thoughts, actions, and emotions with the fundamental principles of the natural world.

“Nature” includes both the physical world and the inherent rationality (God or Intelligence) governing it.

Living in Accordance with Reason: Stoics advocate using reason and rationality to guide actions. This encourages thoughtful decision-making aligned with the principles of virtue.

Acceptance of Events: Stoics embrace events as part of the natural order, whether favorable or unfavorable. External circumstances are beyond our control, but how we respond is within our control.

Focus on Internal Virtues: Virtues include wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. These virtues are seen as in harmony with the natural order.

Adapting to Change: Stoics acknowledge the impermanence and constant change inherent in nature. This encourages adapting to change gracefully and without undue resistance.

Fulfilling Roles and Duties: Individuals have roles and responsibilities in their relationships and society. Living in accord with nature involves fulfilling these roles virtuously.

Recognizing Interconnectedness: Stoicism teaches the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. This encourages a sense of unity with the cosmos.

In essence, being "in accord with nature" in Stoicism means living in harmony with the rational and natural order of the universe, embracing virtues, accepting change, and maintaining inner tranquility in the face of life's uncertainties.