Goal Achievement in Classical Stoicism and Modern $toicism

Abstract

Many claim the philosophy of Stoicism is useful for goal achievement, suggesting it is conducive to productivity and
success. However, classical Stoicism is directly opposed to goal-achievement mentalities. While Stoicism focuses
primarily on developing a certain standard of moral character regardless of external circumstances, this modern goal-orientation focuses exclusively on external achievements, most often toward financial ends. Thus, I distinguish the two as Stoicism in the former and $toicism in the latter. I discuss key differences in how the two views approach goal achievement, revealing that modern $toicism is not a revival but a misrepresentation of classical Stoicism.