Instructions
- Following the pitch for the paper below, make an argument for how Epictetus would react to cancel culture. Sketch the major issues with cancel culture succinctly and charitably, and then support your claim with evidence from Epictetus’ Discourses and Enchiridion as well as other sources. Giving Epictetus a voice will enable him to faithfully reflect his viewpoints.
- The essay should be double-spaced, in 12-point typeface, with 1-inch margins.
Pitch for Paper
In today’s society, the topic of cancel culture has become increasingly common, with many people being ostracized or criticized for past actions or statements. The debate around whether cancel culture is a just and effective means of holding people accountable or whether a form of mob mentality has become a polarizing issue. Many argue that cancel culture stifles free speech and prevents people from discussing their views, while others argue that it is necessary to hold people accountable for their actions and promote social justice.
Epictetus, the Stoic philosopher, would argue that cancel culture is an ineffective means of holding people accountable and promoting social justice. As a Stoic, Epictetus believed that people should focus on developing their own character and goodness, rather than seeking acceptance or confirmation. He believed that people should strive for inner peace and satisfaction, rather than seeking revenge or holding grudges against others. Concerning cancel culture, Epictetus would argue that people should focus on their own actions and behavior, rather than seeking to punish or snub others. Cancel culture promotes a mindset of animosity and cruelness, rather than a focus on personal growth and moral development. I plan to use the Discourses of Epictetus and the Enchiridion of Epictetus as my primary sources for this work, with additional sources for support.
Furthermore, Epictetus contends that cancel culture prevents people from learning from their mistakes while allowing them to mature. He believed in the power of adversity and challenges to promote personal growth and improvement as a Stoic. Cancel culture, on the other hand, prevents people from dealing with the consequences of their actions and learning from their errors. It fosters a fear and censorship culture rather than a culture of learning and growth. Finally, Epictetus contends that cancel culture is ineffective in promoting social justice or holding people accountable for their actions. Instead, people should concentrate on developing their own character and virtue, as well as striving to learn from their mistakes and grow as individuals.
