StoicSpirit

Do the right thing

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As a rule, stoics did not disapprove of absolute power: they opposed a tyrant's abuse of that power (P.A. Brunt, Studies in Stoicism). 

 

During the Principate, when magisterial power was concentrated under the Emperor, there was plenty of opportunity for corruption. Some stoics stood by their principles, regardless of the cost. They became known as the stoic opposition. Some were executed, others exiled.

 

What follows are snapshots of individuals identifying as stoic and how they provided principled leadership, or in some cases principled opposition, while conducting affairs of state. 

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Each stoic - when confronted with corruption and tyranny - would have to choose an appropriate, and often unique, course of action.

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"Others may impede my actions, but they cannot erode my spirit or my will.

Challenges will become opportunities. I will turn roadblocks into roads."

Meditations V.20

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