In this enlightening episode, Nancy Sherman, an author and professor, delves into the profound intersection of Stoicism and military heroism.
She shares insights on how to harness control over emotions, Stoic decision-making techniques, building resilience, and the nuanced difference between honor and virtue.
The discussion also highlights the relevance and application of ancient Greek and Roman philosophies in contemporary times.
Correcting Misconceptions about Stoicism
Stoicism is often misunderstood as promoting emotional resistance and self-reliance.
However, Stoicism emphasizes our interconnectedness and our place in the cosmos.
The most beneficial Stoic lessons teach us to accept that not everything is within our control and that reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness.
Stoicism’s Role in the Military
Stoicism’s influence in the military became evident to Sherman during her tenure at the Naval Academy, where she taught ethics in the aftermath of a cheating scandal.
Phrases like ‘suck it up and truck on’ or ’embrace the suck’ used by midshipmen and officers reflected a Stoic approach to dealing with adversity.
Pressing the Pause Button
A key Stoic concept is the idea of pressing the pause button, creating a space between an initial input and the reaction.
This pause allows for a more reflective response, which can be particularly beneficial in conflict or tension situations.
Understanding Stoic Emotion Theory
Stoicism offers a sophisticated emotion theory that categorizes emotions into three levels.
The first level includes natural and adaptive pre-emotions or proto-emotions.
The second level comprises potentially harmful emotions like anger, fear, resentment, revenge, and chronic grief, which we often endorse and let control us.
Cultivating Rational Desire
Stoics encourage the cultivation of rational desire, which involves responding to situations through reason rather than impulse.
This approach promotes a healthier response to threats and desires, leading to a more serene emotional state.
The Journey to Philosophy
The quest to understand the essence of human beings led Nancy Sherman to philosophy.
Initially drawn to anthropology, she found it too physically oriented.
Psychology, dominated by behaviorism at the time, also didn’t provide the answers she sought.
Philosophy, however, offered a comprehensive exploration of human nature, leading her to embrace it as her field of study.
I wanted to promote a gentler Stoicism than the one I was seeing in the military. – Nancy Sherman
Advocating for a Gentler Stoicism
Sherman advocates for a gentler form of Stoicism, especially in the military context.
Her experiences with the Pentagon and on suicide review boards highlighted the need to destigmatize mental health in the military.
She believes that the Stoic principles of resilience and emotional control should not promote isolation but foster bonding and coordination.
The Power of Reflection
Stoics value reflection and self-monitoring as tools to regain control of emotions.
Practices like journaling and meditation can help us understand our reactions to different situations, creating a pause between feeling an emotion and reacting to it.
Writing as a Stoic Tool
Writing is a powerful tool in Stoicism as it helps clarify and visualize our thoughts.
By articulating our thoughts, we can better understand our emotions and reactions.
Stoics also recommend pre-rehearsing potential negative situations to emotionally prepare for them.
Relevance of Stoicism Today
Stoicism’s teachings on emotional control and resilience are highly relevant today.
Whether in the military or civilian life, understanding and managing our emotions can lead to better decision-making, improved relationships, and overall well-being.
A very prominent theme in Stoicism is that we are coordinated, we’re connected, and we live in a cosmos that makes us cosmopolitan citizens of the universe. – Nancy Sherman
Bridging the Gap Between Thought and Action
Despite the emphasis on rational discourse, there is often a gap between our thoughts and actions.
In addition to rational discourse, physical calming practices like meditation can help bridge this gap.
Stoic Wisdom from a Prisoner of War
James Bond Stockdale, a senior POW in the Hanoi Hilton, exemplified Stoic principles during his captivity.
He found solace and strength in the teachings of Epictetus, particularly the concept of self-command.
His experience resonated with Sherman, prompting her to explore which Stoic lessons could be beneficial in modern times.
