apatheia

Apathy, or apatheia (Greek: apathéia), is a term used in Stoic philosophy to denote a state of freedom from pathē, the disruptive passions or emotional judgments that tradition holds disturb judgment. In Stoicism, apatheia does not mean a lack of feeling but a disciplined steadiness of the will, where one’s responses are guided by reason and virtue rather than impulsive emotion. The goal is inner sovereignty in the face of external events.

Historically, apatheia originated with Hellenistic Stoicism and was developed by Zeno of Citium, Cleanthes, and Chrysippus, later described by Roman Stoics such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. Pathē are viewed as irrational beliefs about what is good or bad; when one assents to such beliefs, one experiences disturbance. Achieving apatheia involves correcting judgments and maintaining a rational stance toward life, so that external changes exert less sway over one’s peace of mind.

Practically, the cultivation of apatheia emphasizes distinguishing what is in our control—our own judgments, desires, and actions—from what is not (external events and outcomes). Techniques include the use of prohairesis (moral choice), viewing externals as indifferent, and cognitive methods such as premeditation of misfortune (premeditatio malorum) and regular reflection to sustain resilience and virtue.

Modern readings often distinguish apatheia from mere numbness, framing it as a principled form of equanimity rather than indifference. It remains a central concept in discussions of Stoic ethics and the broader aim of living in agreement with nature and reason.