r/Stoicism•
0chinch1n

Did ancient stoics search for happiness and fulfilment or no?

Stoicism in Practice

Im currently writing an essay for school about the difference in Stoic and Epicurean view of happiness. I know that Epicureans strive for satisfaction. But im confused about the Stoic view.

Can Stoics have ambitions like family, good payment, better competences? Or the meaning of life is just existing at the bare minimum and going with the flow of life. I seems pretty boring to me not to expect anything from yourself. Can Stoics actively search for happiness? For ex. trying a wine that looks delicious at a party or looking for a woman that they can spend their life with? If no, what is the the border between searching for happiness and just accepting it? If a guy at the party handles you the wine, is it ok if i drink it? Also if i know that the wine wont last all day and i wont start to be an alcoholic.

Posted Nov 14, 2025, 1:57 PM UTC

1212
Loading comments…