Part 10/16:
The Stoics categorize passions (pathē) such as anger, lust, envy, and sorrow as errors stemming from false judgments. They believe these passions are misguided responses that attribute false value to external things.
Practicing self-control (or sophrosyne) involves recognizing these passions, understanding their false basis, and maintaining a rational perspective. Emotions are not inherently wrong but should be experienced in moderation and insight.
The Role of Reason
Feeling joy or grief is natural, but the Stoic insists that we should not be led by these feelings. Instead, we should experience them with detachment and wisdom—accepting transient pleasures and pains as natural parts of life—while maintaining inner virtue.