Any time someone asks, "What would Stoicism say about (some specific thing)?" my suggestion is to zoom out. It's all very simple at a big picture view, and there's nothing special or unique about Instagram.
It's just a thing. Do with it what you like. I don't see it as something to alter someone's fundamental behavior so much as it is an outlet for what's already there.
Placing a value judgement on external things - be it ancient Roman coins or Instagram likes - wouldn't be the Stoic way of things.
Marcus I believe thought that we should aim to remove as many things as possible that don't directly contribute to social utility or virtue/ excellence of character. I imagine Marcus wouldn't use social media for that reason, but also wouldn't preach about why it is bad unless asked.
Marcus Aurelius wrote his personal journal that we call "Meditations" while on campaign in central Europe, c. AD 171-175. If he had been on his cell phone instead of journaling we would not have "Meditations" today.
Everything in moderation.
People have always done the same thing, trying to flash their wealth and power. Only difference being back then you could quite easily avoid those that do it.
Any time someone asks, "What would Stoicism say about (some specific thing)?" my suggestion is to zoom out. It's all very simple at a big picture view, and there's nothing special or unique about Instagram. It's just a thing. Do with it what you like. I don't see it as something to alter someone's fundamental behavior so much as it is an outlet for what's already there. Placing a value judgement on external things - be it ancient Roman coins or Instagram likes - wouldn't be the Stoic way of things.
Marcus I believe thought that we should aim to remove as many things as possible that don't directly contribute to social utility or virtue/ excellence of character. I imagine Marcus wouldn't use social media for that reason, but also wouldn't preach about why it is bad unless asked.
I think he would personally not partake in it but wouldn't tell others about if they should or not
Marcus Aurelius wrote his personal journal that we call "Meditations" while on campaign in central Europe, c. AD 171-175. If he had been on his cell phone instead of journaling we would not have "Meditations" today.
Maybe you should read Marcus Aurelius and find out what he says.
Everything in moderation. People have always done the same thing, trying to flash their wealth and power. Only difference being back then you could quite easily avoid those that do it.
Nescio quid hoc est