Lucius Annaeus Seneca the Younger on Sociability

Kia ora tatou e te whanau
Our next meetup discussion topic is about sociability and a passage by the Roman stoic philosopher Seneca. Have a read of the following quote and be prepared to join in our group discussions sharing our ideas on the topic of sociability and reflecting on Seneca’s words.

This passage comes from from Moral letters to Lucillus by Seneca ( translation by Richard Mott Gummere)

4. The first thing which philosophy undertakes to give is fellow-feeling with all men; in other words, sympathy and sociability. We part company with our promise if we are unlike other men. We must see to it that the means by which we wish to draw admiration be not absurd and odious. Our motto, as you know, is “Live according to Nature”; but it is quite contrary to nature to torture the body, to hate unlaboured elegance, to be dirty on purpose, to eat food that is not only plain, but disgusting and forbidding.
5. Just as it is a sign of luxury to seek out dainties, so it is madness to avoid that which is customary and can be purchased at no great price. Philosophy calls for plain living, but not for penance; and we may perfectly well be plain and neat at the same time. This is the mean of which I approve; our life should observe a happy medium between the ways of a sage and the ways of the world at large; all men should admire it, but they should understand it also.

In small groups we can select questions or topics for discussion. One person per group can give some feedback to the whole group.
Topics for discussion.
1. Why is human connection and sociability so important?
2. Which of the stoic principles (Justice, Wisdom, Courage, Temperance) apply to this passage by Seneca.
3. What can hinder or enhance our connection to others according to Seneca?
4. What does it mean “to live according to nature”
5. Suggest practical ways we can we improve our sociability.

For Further reflection
1. How did Seneca differ from other ancient philosophers, e.g. Musonius Rufus, in his advice or lifestyle, e.g. in how we should or shouldn’t conform or differ from the crowd….
2. Compare Seneca and Musonius Rufus attitude towards wealth or lifestyle simplicity.
3. Consider the ancient Roman context of Seneca’s teaching.
4. Compare the context with modern society.
As philosophers, we are all about applying reason and discussing ideas, and not being experts, we learn from each other. Whether you are new to Stoicism or familiar with its principles, you are most welcome to come along and join in our discussions.