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Lizandra's avatar

I’ve recently started listening to a philosophy podcast and was fascinated hearing about Stoicism and Buddhism and how similar they are. Great article!

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Michael B. Cahill's avatar

There are many fundamental differences between Stoicism and Buddhism, but both are compatible as responses to life, the universe, and the challenges we face. Buddhism does a better job in helping me define the nature of the universe and our small place in it (the primary cause of suffering is craving, which we must find a way to overcome) and providing a multi-phase path to right conduct. Stoicism helps me cope better with the things I can’t control, which is closer to everything than I would like. It is easier for my Western mind to understand, with close parallels to modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. There is deep resonance in these perspectives on our place in the universe and how to make it better, less painful, and more in tune with our small place in it.

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