What Does It Mean to Live According to Nature?
Have you ever stopped to think about what it means to be truly yourself? We all have unique ways of being. We have thoughts and feelings that are our own. Stoicism offers a way of looking at this. It asks us to live in a certain kind of way. This way is called living “according to nature.” It sounds simple, doesn’t it? But what does it really mean for us today? Let’s explore this idea slowly. We’ll break it down into easy parts.
Understanding “Nature”
When Stoics talk about nature, they don’t just mean trees and rivers. They mean a bigger picture.
The Nature of the Universe
Think about the world around you. Things happen because of how the world works. The sun rises and sets. Seasons change. Rain falls. This is the nature of the universe. It has its own rules. Everything fits together in a way. The Stoics believed in this order. They thought there was a reason for everything. Even for things that seem bad.
Our Own Nature
We are also a part of nature. We have a human nature. What makes us human? We can think. We can reason. We have social feelings. We can choose what to do. This is our special human nature. Living according to nature means using these human gifts well. It means being the best human we can be.
In exploring the concept of living according to nature, it is insightful to consider the perspectives of modern-day Stoic philosophers who emphasize the importance of aligning one’s life with natural principles. For a deeper understanding of how contemporary thinkers interpret Stoic philosophy and its application to daily life, you can read the article on modern Stoic philosophers at this link. Their insights can provide valuable guidance on how to embody the Stoic ideal of living in harmony with the natural world.
What is “According to Nature” Then?
So, living according to nature means two things. It means understanding the big picture of the world. It also means understanding ourselves. And then, it means living in a way that fits both.
Using Your Reason
Our reason is like a special tool. It helps us understand things. It helps us make good choices. Living according to nature means using our reason all the time. It means thinking before we act. It means not just doing what we feel like in the moment. It means thinking about what is truly good and right.
Being Social
We are not meant to be alone. We live with other people. We depend on each other. Being social is part of our nature. Living according to nature means treating others well. It means being fair. It means helping when we can. It means being a good part of our community.
The Two Sides of Nature
Let’s look at this idea of nature more closely. It has two main parts.
The Nature of Things (What Happens)
This part is about things we cannot control. The weather changes. People say things. Events happen that are outside our power. This is the nature of how things are. We have to accept this. We cannot fight against the tide. Trying to change what we cannot change will only make us unhappy. Stoicism teaches us to focus on what we can control.
What We Can’t Control
Think about traffic. You might be late for work. This is not your fault. The traffic is outside your control. You can get angry. Or you can accept it. You can use the time to listen to a podcast. Or think about your day. This is accepting the nature of things.
What We Can Control
What can you control? You can control your reaction to the traffic. You can control your attitude. You can control what you do next. This is where our power lies. Living according to nature means focusing your energy here.
The Nature of Humans (How We Should Be)
This part is about us. It’s about our inner selves. It’s about our character. This part is about being good. It’s about being wise. It’s about being just and brave. This is how we should be, as humans.
Virtues Are Key
The Stoics talked a lot about virtues. These are the best qualities a person can have. They are like superpowers for your soul.
Wisdom
Wisdom means understanding what is truly important. It means knowing what is good and what is bad. It means seeing things clearly, without being fooled by what seems important on the outside. Like knowing that having many toys won’t make you happy forever. But being a kind friend will.
Justice
Justice means treating everyone fairly. It means not hurting others. It means giving people what they deserve. It’s about honesty and fairness in all your dealings. Like sharing your toys fairly with your sister.
Courage
Courage is not about not being afraid. It’s about doing the right thing even when you are scared. It’s about facing challenges bravely. Like standing up for someone being bullied.
Temperance
Temperance means self-control. It’s about not going to extremes. It’s about moderation in all things. Like not eating too much candy. Or not getting overly angry.
Living in Harmony with Nature
When we understand these two sides of nature, we can start to live in harmony. We accept what we cannot change. We work on what we can change.
Accepting What Happens
Imagine a storm. You can’t stop the rain. You can’t stop the wind. Living according to nature means not getting upset about the storm itself. You accept that storms happen. You can then choose to stay inside. You can make a cozy cup of tea. You find peace in accepting the situation.
Acting with Virtue
Now, think about how you behave with your friends. If a friend is sad, what does your human nature tell you? It tells you to be kind. To listen. To offer comfort. This is acting according to your human nature. It is acting with virtue.
Living according to nature is a concept that resonates deeply with various philosophical traditions, particularly Stoicism. For those interested in exploring this idea further, a related article offers valuable insights into how modern Stoicism can guide individuals in aligning their lives with natural principles. You can read more about this in the beginner’s guide to modern Stoicism, which discusses practical applications of Stoic philosophy in everyday life. Understanding these principles can enhance one’s journey toward a more harmonious existence in tune with nature.
Nature and Our Desires
One of the biggest challenges is dealing with our desires. We want things. We want comfort. We want praise. Stoicism helps us look at these desires.
Natural vs. Unnatural Desires
Some desires are natural and necessary. We need food. We need shelter. We need to sleep. These are natural. Then there are desires that are neither natural nor necessary. Like wanting to be famous for being good at video games. Or wanting to have every new gadget.
Necessary Desires
These are the things we truly need to survive and be healthy. Food, water, a safe place to live. These are natural and part of our physical nature.
Natural but Unnecessary Desires
These are desires for things that are nice to have, but not essential. Like wanting to eat a delicious meal, but not needing to stuff yourself. Or wanting a comfortable home, but not needing a palace.
Vain and Empty Desires
These are desires that can lead to a lot of suffering. They are often based on what others have or what society tells us is important. Like wanting to be richer than your neighbor. Or wanting to look a certain way because everyone else does. These are often the desires that cause us the most trouble.
Are Your Desires Helping You?
Living according to nature means asking yourself about your desires. Are they helping you become a better person? Or are they making you chase after things that don’t really matter? A desire for self-improvement is natural and good. A desire for endless entertainment might be less so.
The Role of Reason in Living According to Nature
Reason is our guide. It’s what separates us from animals in a special way.
Reason Helps Us Choose Wisely
When you want something, reason helps you ask: Is this good for me? Is this in line with my values? Is this something I truly need? Or am I just being swayed by impulse or by others?
Reason Helps Us Understand Our Duties
As humans, we have duties. To our families. To our friends. To our communities. Reason helps us understand these duties. It helps us see our responsibilities. Living according to nature means fulfilling these duties with integrity.
What Living According to Nature is NOT
It’s easy to misunderstand this idea. Let’s clear up some confusion.
It’s Not About Being Passive
Living according to nature is not about doing nothing. It’s not about sitting back and letting life happen. It’s about acting with purpose. It’s about taking deliberate action, guided by reason.
It’s Not About Ignoring Feelings
Stoicism doesn’t tell you to become a robot. It’s okay to feel sad or happy. The key is not to be ruled by your feelings. You use reason to understand your feelings. You choose how to respond to them. You don’t let strong emotions dictate your actions in a harmful way.
It’s Not About Rejecting Society
As we said, being social is part of our nature. Living according to nature means living well within society. It means being a good citizen. It means contributing positively. It doesn’t mean withdrawing from the world.
It’s Not About Living Like a Primitive Being
It doesn’t mean living in the woods and eating berries. We have modern lives. We benefit from modern tools and knowledge. Living according to nature means using these things wisely. It means using them in a way that doesn’t harm ourselves or others. It’s about using reason even amidst technology.
Putting It Into Practice: Everyday Examples
How can we actually do this? Let’s look at some simple examples.
When You’re Stuck in Traffic
Remember the traffic example? Living according to nature means accepting the traffic. It means not yelling or honking. It means using the time productively. Perhaps listening to an audiobook on a topic you enjoy. Or planning your dinner. You’re not in control of the cars. You are in control of your inner state and how you use that time.
When Someone is Rude to You
Someone cuts in line. Or says something hurtful. Your first reaction might be anger. Living according to nature means pausing. You ask yourself: “Is reacting with anger going to help?” You recognize that the other person’s behavior is their problem, not yours. You can choose to respond calmly. You can choose not to let their rudeness ruin your day. You are acting according to your own nature, not theirs.
When You’re Tempted to Overindulge
You see a huge plate of cookies. Your mind says, “Eat them all!” Living according to nature means using temperance. You enjoy one or two. You recognize that too much will make you feel sick. You exercise self-control. You are nourishing your body, not harming it.
When You Have a Lot of Work
You have a big project. It feels overwhelming. Living according to nature means using wisdom. You break the project into smaller steps. You focus on one step at a time. You don’t get lost in the worry of the whole thing. You act deliberately and with purpose.
When You Disagree with Someone
You’re talking with a friend about something important. You have different opinions. Living according to nature means using justice and reason. You listen to their point of view. You try to understand where they are coming from. You express your own views respectfully. You don’t try to force them to agree with you. You maintain the friendship.
The Goal: Inner Peace and Flourishing
So, why do all this? What’s the point of living according to nature?
Finding Serenity
When you accept what you cannot change, you stop fighting a losing battle. This leads to a deep sense of calm. You are not easily disturbed by external events. You have found inner peace.
Becoming a Better Person
By focusing on virtue, you build a strong character. You become wiser, fairer, braver, and more self-controlled. This is what truly makes a person good and admirable.
Living a Meaningful Life
When you live according to your true nature, your life has meaning. You are not just drifting. You are living with purpose and integrity. You are contributing to the world in a positive way. This is what the Stoics called flourishing. It’s living the best possible human life.
A Final Thought
Living according to nature is a lifelong practice. It’s not something you achieve overnight. It’s about making small, consistent choices. It’s about using your reason. It’s about accepting what is. And it’s about striving to be the best version of yourself. It’s a path towards a calm, steady, and meaningful life.
FAQs
What does it mean to live according to nature?
Living according to nature means aligning one’s lifestyle and actions with the natural world, respecting and preserving the environment, and living in harmony with the Earth’s ecosystems.
How can one live according to nature?
Living according to nature involves adopting sustainable practices, reducing one’s carbon footprint, conserving natural resources, supporting biodiversity, and promoting environmental stewardship.
Why is it important to live according to nature?
Living according to nature is important for preserving the planet’s ecosystems, mitigating climate change, protecting wildlife, and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
What are some examples of living according to nature?
Examples of living according to nature include practicing sustainable agriculture, using renewable energy sources, reducing waste and plastic consumption, supporting conservation efforts, and respecting wildlife habitats.
How can living according to nature benefit individuals and society?
Living according to nature can benefit individuals and society by promoting physical and mental well-being, fostering a sense of connection to the natural world, and creating a more sustainable and resilient society.
