World Philosophy Day
World Philosophy Day
Celebrating the Enduring Value of Philosophy
Today, on World Philosophy Day, we celebrate the profound impact that philosophy has had on human thought, culture, and individual growth. Celebrated every third Thursday of November, this day is led by UNESCO to highlight the value of philosophy in shaping societies. Philosophy is not just an abstract discipline; it is a powerful tool for personal and social transformation. By encouraging reflection and the reasoned confrontation of differing opinions, philosophy fosters a more tolerant, respectful, and reflective society (UNESCO).
Although UNESCO leads the observance of World Philosophy Day, they emphasize that it does not “own” it, giving everyone the freedom to reflect on what philosophy means to them. Philosophy belongs to everyone—those who care about it and those who are curious to explore it.
A Modern-Day Catch-22: Finding Time for Philosophy
You might be thinking, “Philosophy? I have no time for such indulgent musings. I can barely meet my project deadline, do the shopping, and pick up the kids from after-school club. Who has time to think deeply about philosophy?”
It may feel like a catch-22. You’re too busy to pause for philosophy, yet the very philosophy of the Stoics could be the answer. They would advise us today to cultivate ataraxia—a state of emotional calmness and mental clarity, unaffected by external events.
At first glance, Stoic philosophy might seem more suited to simpler times. After all, the Stoics didn’t have to rush through traffic or juggle a hundred digital distractions. But while life in many ways is simpler today, it’s also more complex and often wasteful in terms of time and attention. We are constantly bombarded by external distractions that make inner peace seem elusive. In this context, philosophy remains evergreen—its truths transcend time and place, offering practical guidance for today.
The Stoic Philosophy: A Path to Growth
At the Team Musiala Foundation, we have a deep love for books, and philosophy holds a special place in our hearts, particularly Stoic philosophy. Stoicism can be seen as a precursor to what we now call the “growth mindset.” After much reflection, we’ve identified five key characteristics of Stoic philosophy:
- Focus on What Is Within Our Control
Stoicism teaches us to focus on what we can control—our thoughts, actions, and judgments—while letting go of external factors we cannot change. Recognizing that our happiness does not depend on external events, but on our responses to them, we are reminded to consider: Do I allow someone’s derogatory comments about me to affect how I show up or what I do? - Emotional Resilience and Self-Control
Stoics believe that we are responsible for our feelings. Emotions arise from how we assess situations, and it is crucial to distinguish between what we can influence and what we cannot. Recognizing that we are the masters of our own thoughts and feelings gives us freedom and accountability, and allows us to develop new perspectives on challenging situations. By exercising self-control, we gain the ability to stay calm and resilient, no matter what external pressures arise. - Virtue as the Highest Good
For the Stoics, virtue was the key to a flourishing life. Wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance were seen as the true sources of happiness, guiding us to live in alignment with our values, regardless of external circumstances.- Wisdom: The ability to make sound judgments and choices.
- Courage: The strength to face difficulties without being overwhelmed by fear.
- Justice: Acting with fairness and respect toward others, in service of the common good.
- Temperance: Moderating our desires and impulses to ensure that our actions are guided by reason, not unchecked passion.
- Reflection and Self-Examination
Regular reflection is vital for ensuring that our actions are virtuous and our respective philosophy. By engaging in self-examination, we ensure that our choices reflect wisdom, courage, and justice. - Social Duty
Stoicism emphasizes the importance of social duty—acting with justice, kindness, and compassion toward others. Recognizing our shared humanity, we are called to contribute to the common good, cultivating a society rooted in respect and cooperation.
The Stoic Legacy: Zeno and Beyond
Most people have heard of Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and perhaps even Epictetus, but it was Zeno of Citium (c. 335 BCE – 263 BCE) who founded the Stoic school of philosophy. Zeno, who began his studies in Athens around 312 BCE, was influenced by Cynic philosophers like Crates of Thebes and Stilpon of Megara. He later taught at the Stoa Poikile(the Painted Colonnade), which gave the Stoic philosophy its name. Zeno’s system of philosophy encompassed logic, epistemology, physics, and ethics, with a particular focus on ethics as the central element.
Stoicism is practical and ethical, offering timeless wisdom that continues to inspire philosophers, psychologists, and individuals seeking personal growth and meaning in the modern world.
Stoicism and the Growth Mindset
At the Team Musiala Foundation, we see many parallels between Stoic philosophy and the modern concept of the growth mindset. Both emphasize awareness, mindfulness, and reflection as tools for understanding our values and fostering personal growth. Through these practices, even young children can empower themselves to make better decisions and take ownership of their personal development.
Closing Thoughts on Stoic Wisdom
In a world filled with distractions and competing demands, Stoicism offers a timeless blueprint for living a focused and virtuous life. By concentrating on what we can control, mastering our emotions, and striving to live in accordance with reason, we can build resilience, find purpose, and maintain inner peace amidst life’s challenges. On World Philosophy Day, we are reminded that philosophy—far from being a frivolous luxury—is a crucial practice for personal and societal growth. It is an ongoing conversation, and like the Stoics, we are all invited to participate in it.
To close, we leave you with a few of our favorite quotes from the Stoics:
We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.
You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.
Join in!
MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND EARN EQUIPMENT
We offer an interactive programme with engaging and fun activities focused on the topic of values as well as growth mindset, which enables children to discover their abilities and strengths. Our courses are super easy to integrate at the beginning of one of the weekly football training sessions: 1 x session of 15-minutes per week over 7 weeks.
With each completed course, not only will you all have that warm fuzzy feeling of having learnt something new, but your team has earned itself some helpful equipment. Balls, goals, corner flags or bags – there is always something a football team and club could do with. A small time investment which can make a huge difference for each child, your time and the club. It’s a win-win for everyone.
