synechiene

Synechiene is a term with origins in ancient Greek philosophy, specifically associated with Stoicism. It generally refers to the concept of a continuous, unbroken chain or connection of events or things within the universe. This unbroken link implies a causal relationship, where each event is necessarily preceded and followed by another, creating a seamless flow of existence. The Stoics believed that the cosmos was a rational and ordered whole, governed by fate or providence, and synechiene was the philosophical principle that explained how this order was maintained.

This concept emphasizes the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Nothing happens in isolation; rather, every occurrence is a part of a larger, intricate web of cause and effect. This perspective suggests that the universe is deterministic, meaning that all events are predetermined and unavoidable due to the preceding causes. Understanding synechiene was crucial for Stoics in developing their ethics, as it encouraged acceptance of one's fate and a focus on what is within one's control, namely one's own judgments and actions, in response to the inevitable unfolding of events. The idea of a continuous and unbroken sequence highlights the holistic nature of the Stoic worldview.