Introduction

Watching politics unfold today feels like we’ve stepped right into the movie Idiocracy—minus the laughs. The leaders scream rather than speak, common sense seems like a revolutionary concept, and just when you think things can’t get worse, someone with far too much power says something you’d normally expect from an internet troll.

If you’re anything like me—someone prone to doomscrolling until anxiety feels like a second personality—you’ve probably thought about giving up entirely and moving somewhere quiet. Unfortunately, reality isn’t optional, and hiding under a blanket until the apocalypse passes isn’t exactly sustainable (trust me, I’ve tried).

But don’t worry for this is where the wisdom and experience of two famous Roman Stoics: Seneca and Cato comes in to our rescue. They didn’t just preach wisdom, but they survived leaders so corrupt and violent that it makes our current political messes seem almost tame in comparison. Cato stood unwavering against Julius Caesar’s authoritarian takeover, fighting for democracy until the bitter end, while Seneca somehow navigated life under Caligula, Claudius, and Nero—three tyrants whose resumes include exile, torture, murder, and burning down half of Rome. If they could handle that and still offer sane advice, maybe listening to their advice will also help us deal with today’s special brand of madness.

(If you’re curious how these Stoics managed their challenges, check out my more detailed posts on Seneca and Cato.)

Quote #1

“If you live properly, don’t worry about what the evil ones say.”
— Cato the Younger

Explanation
People are always going to talk trash—especially if you’re standing up for something important. You can’t control their words, but you can control your reaction. By ignoring their insults, you take away their power (and probably annoy them even more).

Modern-Day Application
Next time someone spews toxic nonsense on social media, remind yourself their opinions matter about as much as my attempts at karaoke: painful for anyone to witness, but ultimately meaningless.

Quote #2

“True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future.”
— Seneca

Explanation
Seneca lived under emperors so bad they’d make even our worst politicians seem tolerable. Yet he still insisted happiness lies in appreciating the present moment.

Modern-Day Application
Even when politics and life in general is chaos: try to find something enjoyable right now—good coffee, dumb memes, or your cat ignoring you. Remember, life is short; don’t waste it waiting for better days to come.

Quote #3

“It’s not because things are difficult that we dare not venture. It’s because we dare not venture that they are difficult.”
— Seneca

Explanation
We often don’t even start because we’re afraid it’s pointless or too hard. Seneca reminds us that the difficulty comes from our hesitation and not the action itself. Moreover small consistent steps towards a difficult venture, will make the venture less difficult or at the very least prove you were right thinking it was impossible.

Modern-Day Application
If you’re thinking “But what can I even do about politics?” Just start small—join community meetings, volunteer locally, help people in any way you can. Even small actions of kindness are better than endlessly scrolling Twitter while crying softly into your pillow.

Quote #4

“It is difficult to bring people to goodness with lessons, but it is easy to do so by example.”
— Seneca

Explanation
Actions always speak louder than lectures. Arguing online rarely changes minds, but setting a real-life example might.

Modern-Day Application
Instead of trying to debate conspiracy theorists online (trust me, your blood pressure will thank you), quietly demonstrate the values you believe in through your own behavior. Kindness, respect, and integrity still impress more people than endless arguing online with trolls and bots.

Quote #5

“Should anyone attempt to deceive you by false expressions, and not be a true friend at heart, act in the same manner, and thus art will defeat art. [If you would catch a man let him think he is catching you.]”
— Cato the Younger

Explanation
Cato warns us to remain cautious and tactful when dealing with deceptive people. If someone tries to manipulate or betray you, it’s often wiser to respond subtly rather than react impulsively. Letting deceivers think they’re in control can actually give you the advantage—allowing you to clearly understand their intentions and respond strategically.

Modern-Day Application
In our current climate, where rich billionaires tweet straight-up fascist conspiracy theories while under the influence and addicted to mind-altering substances, Cato’s advice is especially relevant. Instead of immediately engaging with every absurd or malicious claim, step back, analyze their intentions carefully, and choose your response thoughtfully. After all, you can’t reason someone out of a position they posted about at 3 AM.

Quote #6

“It is more civilized to make fun of life than to bewail it.”
— Seneca

Explanation
Life has always been absurdly unfair. Seneca, despite facing tyrants, exile, and constant danger, chose humor over despair. Finding laughter in dark situations isn’t trivializing them—it’s a way of staying resilient enough to actually do something productive.

Modern-Day Application
Laughing at absurd political scenarios doesn’t mean that you are ignoring them, but rather think of it as preserving your mental health so you can keep fighting for change. Dark humor won’t fix anything, but it’s a much better starting point than despair. As Seneca might suggest, better to chuckle than endlessly scream at your news feed (believe me, I’ve tested this extensively).

Quote #7

“For the only safe harbor in this life’s tossing sea is to refuse to worry about what the future will bring and to stand ready and confident to take whatever fortune hurls at us.”
— Seneca

Explanation
Life is unpredictable and often unfair, but accepting this makes it easier to deal with whatever comes next.

Modern-Day Application
Expect chaos, but don’t obsess over it. Prepare for storms, but live your life anyway. Remember, confidence can be faked convincingly—trust me, I’m doing it right now.

Quote #8

“No condition is so bitter that a stable mind cannot find some consolation in it.”
— Seneca

Explanation
Seneca knew extreme adversity firsthand but emphasized that a strong and stable mind could always find something positive, even in the worst situations. He saw resilience as a choice available to everyone, regardless of their circumstances.

Modern-Day Application
When overwhelmed by political turmoil, find your small consolations—a comforting book, time in nature, or rewatching favorite comedies. Allowing yourself these moments isn’t avoidance; it helps preserve sanity and emotional strength, so you can keep fighting injustice another day.

Quote #9

“For it is dangerous to attach one’s self to the crowd… let us merely separate ourselves from the crowd, and we shall be made whole.”
— Seneca

Explanation
Seneca warns us about the dangers of blindly following the masses. He recognized that group-think often leads people down paths they’d never choose on their own. Instead, we should encourage independent thought, critical thinking, and self-reliance as the keys to our own happiness and sanity.

Modern-Day Application
Resist the temptation to follow popular outrage blindly. Form your own informed opinions, even if they differ from your Facebook feed and trust your ability to make the right choices instead of having the choices made for you by someone who may not have your best interests at heart.

Quote #10

“We must go for walks out of doors, so that the mind can be strengthened and invigorated by a clear sky and plenty of fresh air. At times it will acquire fresh energy from a journey by carriage and a change of scene, or from socializing and drinking freely. Occasionally we should even come to the point of intoxication, sinking into drink but not being totally flooded by it; for it does wash away cares, and stirs the mind to its depths, and heals sorrow just as it heals certain diseases.”
— Seneca

Explanation
Seneca reminds us that rest, relaxation, and even occasionally letting loose isn’t just acceptable, but actually essential for living a good life. He recognized that the mind, like the body, can’t constantly run on high alert without eventually collapsing. To remain sharp, balanced, and able to tackle life’s challenges effectively, taking time off to recharge and rejuvenate is critical.

Modern-Day Application
In today’s “hustle culture,” many of us feel guilty for taking time off—even a simple walk outdoors or a casual night with friends can feel like we’re cheating on productivity. But think of rest like refueling your car or charging your phone: sure, it might feel inconvenient in the moment (especially if you’re as impatient as I am), but skipping it guarantees a crash later.

Taking breaks isn’t abandoning your duties or ignoring injustice—quite the opposite. It’s ensuring you have the energy, clarity, and sanity to keep fighting effectively. And let’s face it, no matter how many tweets a certain billionaire posts about the “life hack” of working 14-hour days, the only thing you’re hacking by never resting is your own mental and physical health. So go take that walk, breathe deeply, laugh freely, and maybe have that drink (responsibly). The fight for justice is a marathon, not a sprint so remember to rest accordingly!

Conclusion

Yes, modern politics often feels ridiculous, chaotic, and depressingly unfair. But remember, Seneca and Cato faced darker times and chose courage, dignity, and humor. They show us that while we can’t control the madness around us, we can absolutely control our response to it.

The ultimate Stoic rebellion isn’t bitterness or despair; it’s staying kind, just, and rational when everyone else seems determined to lose their minds. As Marcus Aurelius famously put it, “The best revenge is to be unlike your enemy.” Be the voice of reason, kindness, and courage. Let your example inspire others.

Call to Action

So, take a deep breath, remember these Stoic lessons, and commit to small actions every day. Volunteer, advocate, speak up when needed, but above all, never let cynicism corrupt your character. The world won’t magically fix itself overnight, but if enough of us choose sanity, kindness, and courage, eventually, change will come.

(And remember—if nothing else, staying sane in insane times is itself a victory. That, and coffee.)

“We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” — Seneca

But trust me, my hosting bills are very real. If you find these resources and my blog valuable, please consider making a donation. After all, even a Stoic can’t pay for web hosting with virtue alone!

Donate via PayPal