Actions & duties

The Greek term Kathêkon, often translated as "actions" or "duties," is a central concept in Stoic philosophy that refers to what is "appropriate" or "suitable" in the context of our role in society and in life. It encompasses the actions we should undertake based on our responsibilities and circumstances, meaning what reason dictates as the just and correct behavior.

From the Stoic perspective, duties are not merely obligations imposed by social rules but rather actions that are in harmony with human nature and reason. Stoics teach that each individual has roles to fulfill in life—as a parent, citizen, friend, etc.—and that there is a natural duty associated with each of these roles. Fulfilling these duties means acting in accordance with virtue, as appropriate actions stem from our rational understanding of the situation and our desire to act justly and morally.

These actions and duties are a fundamental aspect of daily life, and although they may seem ordinary, Stoics emphasize the importance of performing them with excellence and integrity. The kathêkon thus reinforces the idea that Stoic philosophy is a practical philosophy, where wisdom and virtue manifest in both the small and large actions of life.