Definition Of Stoic Kathekon
The Stoic concept of “kathekon” is a central idea in Stoic ethics that refers to “appropriate actions” or “proper functions.”
It describes the kind of actions a person should take in their daily life based on their role in society, their nature as rational beings, and their circumstances. Unlike moral duties that are absolute, kathekonta (plural of kathekon) are actions that are generally appropriate but not necessarily virtuous in themselves. They are steps toward living a virtuous life.
Understanding Stoic Kathekon
In simple terms, kathekon refers to the actions that are naturally fitting for a person to do. The Stoics believed that all living things have certain natural inclinations. For example, animals instinctively seek food, care for their young, and avoid danger. Similarly, human beings have natural inclinations, but because we possess reason, we are capable of recognizing what actions are appropriate for us in different situations.
A kathekon is not necessarily a heroic or extraordinary action. It can be something as simple as helping a friend, showing kindness to a stranger, or fulfilling one’s job duties responsibly. The key idea is that these actions align with our rational nature and contribute to a well-ordered life.
Kathekon and Virtue
Stoic philosophy teaches that the highest good is virtue. Virtue consists of Wisdom, Courage, Justice, and Temperance. While kathekonta are generally good and appropriate actions, they do not automatically lead to virtue. Instead, they are a means through which a person can practice and develop virtue.
For example, imagine a person who returns a lost wallet. This action is appropriate and aligns with social expectations, making it a kathekon. However, if the person returns the wallet only because they fear punishment or want praise, their action lacks true virtue. But if they do it because they recognize that honesty and justice are valuable in themselves, then the action contributes to their moral progress.
What The Stoics Said
The term “duty” (kathēkon) was used first by Zeno and is derived from kata tina hēkein, that is, “incumbent on So-and-so.” It is an activity inherently appropriate to natural arrangements. For of actions prompted by impulse some are appropriate, others the reverse, and still others neither the one nor the other.
Actions belonging to duty are those that reason prescribes our doing, as is the case with honoring one’s parents, brothers, country, and spending time with one’s friends. Actions contrary to duty are those that reason forbids, for example, neglecting one’s parents, ignoring one’s brothers, being out of sympathy with one’s friends, disregarding one’s country, and the like. Actions neither belonging to duty, nor contrary to it, are those that reason neither prescribes our doing nor forbids, such as picking up a twig, holding a stylus or a scraper, and the like.
Diogenes Laertius, Lives of the Eminent Philosophers
These duties the Stoics call “mean duties”; they are a common possession and have wide application; and many people attain to the knowledge of them through natural goodness of heart and through advancement in learning. But that duty which those same Stoics call “right” is perfect and absolute and “satisfies all the numbers,” as that same school says, and is attainable by none except the wise man.
On the other hand, when some act is performed in which we see “mean” duties manifested, that is generally regarded as fully perfect, for the reason that the common crowd does not, as a rule, comprehend how far it falls short of real perfection; but, as far as their comprehension does go, they think there is no deficiency.
Cicero, On Duties 3.3
How Can I Practice Stoic Kathekonta?
The concept of kathekon is useful because it provides guidance on how to navigate daily life while working toward moral excellence. The Stoics did not expect people to be perfectly virtuous all the time. There are no sages. Instead, they encouraged people to take appropriate actions as stepping stones toward wisdom and moral improvement.
A few examples of kathekonta in daily life include:
- Treating others with respect and fairness
- Taking care of one’s health
- Contributing to society through work or service
- Honoring obligations to family and friends
The Stoics believed that by consistently performing kathekonta, a person moves closer to eudaimonia, or a flourishing life. Over time, these appropriate actions can help cultivate a virtuous character.
Conclusion
Kathekon is an essential part of Stoic ethics, guiding individuals toward actions that are fitting for their nature as rational beings. While these actions are not the same as virtue itself, they serve as practical steps toward developing a virtuous life. By consistently practicing kathekonta, people can align themselves with reason, fulfill their roles in society, and make steady progress toward the Stoic ideal of Wisdom and moral excellence.
