Stoicism is often presented as a purely reactive philosophy. Its role is to toughen the soul for enduring setbacks, adversity, and eventually death; and its goal is the reduction of emotional pain, devoting little energy to solving the root problems. Seneca was the most prolific Stoic author in Ancient Rome, but his recommendations are far…

Patience and endurance have become the archetypal virtues of those who claim to be enlightened. When the situation gets from bad to worse, they are the first to recommend resignation, acceptance and passivity. Seneca is to blame for originating the passive mentality that will accept anything, even the most outrageous abuses. That’s the mentality of…