How Environment Shapes Moral Progress (Meditation 3.9)

This episode explores Meditations 3.9, where Marcus Aurelius urges us to revere our rational faculty. In Stoicism, rationality is our greatest gift—it’s the tool that allows us to pursue Virtue, shape our moral character, and ultimately live in accordance with Nature. But how do we cultivate this faculty, especially when our environment doesn’t support moral growth? I discuss how we are shaped by our surroundings, often without realizing it. If we’re immersed in Stoic teachings, the path to moral improvement becomes clearer. If we’re surrounded by different influences—religious, ideological, or otherwise—we internalize those instead. This is why the Stoics believed that introducing philosophy too early could be a form of indoctrination rather than genuine moral development. As a new father, I reflect on the challenge of raising a child without forcing beliefs upon them. The goal isn’t to dictate what’s right but to create an environment where they can discover Virtue for themselves. The same applies to guiding friends and family—lead by example rather than preaching. For those struggling to commit to moral improvement in a non-Stoic environment, I offer three actionable steps: recognize the need for guidance, seek a mentor, and eventually mentor others when ready. Marcus Aurelius reminds us that our rational judgment must align with Nature. By shaping our habits and seeking wisdom, we give ourselves the best chance at living a life of Virtue. “Reverence your faculty of judgement. On this it entirely rests that your governing self no longer has a judgement disobedient to Nature and to the estate of a reasonable being. This judgement promises deliberateness, familiar friendship with our fellow human beings, and to follow in the train of the gods.” — Meditations 3.9 Join The Society of Stoics, my private community for those committed to Stoic practice. For $10/month, you’ll get ad-free episodes, live discussions, weekly journaling prompts, and more. Sign up at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Purchase a copy of my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read the source text used: https://stoicismpod.com/far Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Stoic Fellowship: https://stoicfellowship.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices