Philosopher Johnathan Bi Declares "Real" Stoicism "Insane" and "Unlivable" in New Lecture

New York, NY – Philosopher and content creator Johnathan Bi has launched a systematic critique of Stoicism, asserting in a recent lecture that the ancient philosophy, particularly in its "real" form, is "insane, unlivable and counterproductive." Bi, known for his "Great Books" lecture series, shared his findings after dedicating the past year to studying ancient Greek, interviewing top Stoic scholars, and delving into core texts.

Bi's lecture, titled "A Systematic Critique of Stoic Philosophy," challenges both modern "pop" interpretations and traditional Stoic tenets. He contends that while "pop" Stoicism serves as a coping mechanism, "real" Stoicism is "somehow more insane, unlivable and counterproductive." His analysis draws heavily from the works of Friedrich Nietzsche and Cicero, providing a multi-faceted attack on the philosophy's core principles.

Key points of Bi's critique include Nietzsche's view of Stoicism as a "cope alert" mechanism, its popularity as a "warning for our times," and what he describes as "The Hypocrisy of Seneca." He further dissects "The Illusion of Autonomy in Stoicism" and argues that "Stoic Ethics Are Wildly Unrealistic." The lecture also delves into provocative topics such as "Why Stoics Argue That Plato and Hitler Are Both Equally Miserable" and "Suicide: When You Should Kill Yourself," highlighting the extreme implications of certain Stoic doctrines.

Despite his strong criticisms, Bi maintains he is "not a stoic hater," stating in his social media announcement, "I’m going to end this lecture by telling you why I will still be reading them despite thinking they got it comically wrong." This nuanced stance suggests a deeper engagement with the philosophy, acknowledging its potential for insight even while rejecting its practical application.

Bi's lecture is part of his broader effort to make classical philosophical works accessible and critically examined for a modern audience. His work, which includes a popular Substack and YouTube channel, aims to foster a deeper understanding of historical thought through rigorous analysis and contemporary relevance. The critique of Stoicism is expected to spark further discussion within philosophical circles and among his substantial online following.