Absurdism and Stoicism offer two different ways of dealing with life’s challenges. Absurdism, shaped by thinkers like Albert Camus, sees life as inherently meaningless. It argues that humans must face this lack of meaning without false hope. Stoicism, rooted in ancient philosophy, teaches that virtue and self-control lead to a good life. It emphasizes accepting what we cannot change.
Comparing these philosophies helps us understand different responses to life’s struggles. Both offer insights into resilience and personal growth. However, they take opposite approaches to meaning, emotions, and happiness. Understanding these differences can help us shape our own perspective on life.
Understanding Absurdism
Absurdism is a philosophical perspective that explores the conflict between human desire for meaning and the apparent lack of it in the universe. Albert Camus, one of its most well-known thinkers, argued that life has no inherent purpose. He described this as “the absurd”—the contradiction between our search for meaning and the silent, indifferent world. Unlike nihilism, which denies meaning altogether, Absurdism acknowledges this conflict but insists on facing it directly rather than escaping into false beliefs.
Albert Camus is the central figure in Absurdist thought. His book The Myth of Sisyphus (1942) lays out the foundation of Absurdism. He uses the Greek myth of Sisyphus, a man condemned to roll a boulder up a hill for eternity, as a metaphor for human existence. According to Camus, Sisyphus represents the human struggle against an indifferent universe. Rather than falling into despair, Camus argues that we must embrace the absurd and live with defiant joy. Other thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard also explored themes of existential struggle, though they arrived at different conclusions.
Absurdism rejects traditional sources of meaning, such as religion or metaphysics, because they offer comfort rather than truth. Camus argues that people often turn to illusions—like faith or ideology—to escape the absurd. Instead, he suggests we should confront the absurd head-on. This confrontation does not lead to hopelessness but to a unique kind of freedom. By accepting that life has no predetermined meaning, we gain the ability to create our own. Absurdism challenges us to live without false hope, to resist despair, and to find satisfaction in life’s experiences despite its lack of ultimate purpose.
A Quick Look At Stoicism
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that teaches the importance of self-control, virtue, and rational thinking. It was founded in the early 3rd century BCE by Zeno of Citium in Athens. Stoics believe that external events are beyond our control, but our responses to them are within our power. They emphasize living in accordance with nature, cultivating inner peace, and focusing on personal virtue. The goal is not to eliminate emotions but to master them through reason. Stoicism provides a practical guide for handling adversity, maintaining resilience, and achieving a fulfilling life.
Several key figures shaped Stoic philosophy. Seneca, a Roman statesman and writer, emphasized practical wisdom and emotional control. His letters and essays offer guidance on how to remain calm in the face of difficulty. Epictetus, a former slave turned philosopher, taught that true freedom comes from controlling one’s thoughts and desires rather than external circumstances. Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor, recorded his reflections in Meditations, a personal journal filled with Stoic insights. These thinkers laid the foundation for Stoicism’s influence on both ancient and modern thought.
Core Principles of Absurdism
#1. The Absurdity of Existence
Absurdism begins with the recognition that human beings seek meaning in a universe that offers none. This conflict—between our desire for purpose and the world’s indifference—is what Albert Camus called “the absurd.” We long for answers, yet the universe remains silent. Science, philosophy, and religion attempt to explain existence, but none provide absolute certainty. This realization creates tension, as people struggle to reconcile their need for meaning with the randomness of life.
Camus argues that recognizing absurdity is the first step toward true awareness. Instead of denying or avoiding it, we must confront it directly. Many people seek refuge in religion or ideology, but Absurdism rejects these as false comforts. The absurd is not something to be solved—it is something to be lived with. This acceptance forms the foundation of Absurdist thought.
#2. Revolt Against Absurdity
Once we recognize absurdity, we have three possible responses: denial, suicide, or revolt. Camus rejects denial and suicide, arguing that the only meaningful response is revolt. This does not mean violent rebellion but rather a personal, internal defiance against the absurd. We revolt by living fully, embracing life despite its lack of inherent meaning.
Revolt is an act of freedom. By refusing to submit to despair or false hope, we assert our independence. This defiance is what Camus refers to in The Myth of Sisyphus—Sisyphus is doomed to roll a boulder uphill for eternity, yet in his struggle, he finds a kind of victory. His suffering does not disappear, but he owns it. In the same way, humans can find meaning in the very act of living, even without ultimate purpose.
#3. Confrontation with the Absurd
Confronting the absurd is a lifelong process. It requires constant awareness that life has no predetermined meaning. Camus warns against falling into nihilism, which suggests that because life is meaningless, nothing matters. Absurdism takes a different approach: while life has no objective meaning, we can still find personal meaning in our experiences.
This confrontation involves rejecting illusions. Many people seek comfort in religious faith, political ideologies, or grand narratives about destiny. Absurdism challenges us to let go of these constructs and see life as it is. This does not lead to despair, but to a deeper engagement with the present moment. When we stop searching for ultimate answers, we can focus on living fully.
#4. Freedom in Absurdity
Absurdism does not see the lack of inherent meaning as a burden—it sees it as freedom. If life has no set purpose, we are free to create our own. Traditional belief systems impose rules and restrictions, but the absurdist recognizes that these are human-made constructs. Without an overarching purpose, we are not bound by any external meaning and can choose how to live.
This freedom comes with responsibility. It does not mean reckless behavior or nihilistic detachment. Instead, it means taking ownership of one’s actions and choices. Camus emphasizes that we must live with integrity, fully aware that our decisions are our own. This freedom is both exhilarating and challenging. Without predetermined meaning, we must navigate life with courage and authenticity.
#5. Rejection of Suicide
Camus famously begins The Myth of Sisyphus with the statement: “There is but one truly serious philosophical problem, and that is suicide.” He argues that when faced with the absurd, some may see suicide as the only escape. However, he strongly rejects this response, viewing it as a surrender. Suicide, in his view, is an admission that life is not worth living, while Absurdism insists that it is.
Rather than seeking an escape, Absurdism encourages us to embrace life despite its lack of ultimate meaning. The act of continuing to live is itself an act of defiance against the absurd. Sisyphus, though trapped in a meaningless cycle, continues pushing his boulder. Camus declares that “one must imagine Sisyphus happy.” In this, he suggests that joy is possible even in a world without inherent meaning.
#6. Living Without Hope
Absurdism challenges the idea of hope as a solution to life’s struggles. Many philosophies and religions offer hope in the form of an afterlife, destiny, or ultimate justice. Camus rejects this kind of hope, seeing it as a way of avoiding the truth of absurdity. He calls for a life lived in full awareness of the absurd, without relying on illusions.
Living without hope does not mean living in despair. Instead, it means embracing life as it is, without waiting for external meaning or salvation. This approach requires a shift in perspective. Instead of hoping for a better future or deeper purpose, Absurdism encourages finding joy in the present. It values experience over expectation, action over wishful thinking.
#7. Rejection of Religion and Metaphysics
Absurdism denies the existence of absolute truths, including religious and metaphysical beliefs. Camus does not argue against religion out of hostility but because he sees it as an escape from absurdity. Belief in an afterlife, divine plan, or ultimate justice provides comfort, but Absurdism holds that these are human constructs rather than objective realities.
By rejecting religion and metaphysics, Absurdism forces individuals to take full responsibility for their own existence. Without divine purpose or cosmic justice, life’s meaning must be created rather than discovered. This rejection does not lead to despair, but to a deeper engagement with life. By letting go of illusions, one can live more freely and honestly, accepting the world as it is rather than how one wishes it to be.
Core Principles of Stoicism
#1. Virtue is the Only Good
Stoicism teaches that the highest good in life is virtue. Unlike philosophies that define happiness through pleasure, wealth, or success, Stoicism holds that true fulfillment comes from moral character. The four cardinal virtues of Stoicism are wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. Everything else—health, status, material wealth—is secondary. A virtuous person remains content regardless of circumstances because their happiness comes from within.
Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius all emphasized that external events do not determine a person’s worth—only their character does. If a person acts with integrity and wisdom, they are living the best possible life. This principle forms the foundation of Stoicism, guiding individuals to focus on their moral development rather than external rewards.
#2. Control What You Can, Accept What You Can’t
One of the most well-known Stoic teachings is the idea that we should focus only on what we can control. Many aspects of life—other people’s opinions, natural disasters, the past—are beyond our influence. Worrying about these things leads to frustration and suffering. Instead, Stoicism advises directing energy toward what we can change: our thoughts, actions, and responses to events.
Epictetus, a former slave who became a leading Stoic teacher, emphasized that our power lies in our perception of events rather than the events themselves. If we accept what is beyond our control and focus on our own actions, we free ourselves from unnecessary stress. This mindset allows us to navigate life with greater peace and resilience.
#3. Living in Accordance with Nature
Stoics believe that the universe is governed by rational laws. Living in accordance with nature means understanding and accepting these natural principles rather than resisting them. This does not mean passively accepting everything but rather recognizing that human beings are rational creatures meant to live virtuously.
Marcus Aurelius frequently wrote about accepting life’s natural course. He argued that just as a tree does not resist the changing seasons, a wise person does not resist life’s ups and downs. Understanding that we are part of a larger order helps us accept challenges and live with greater harmony.
#4. The Dichotomy of Control
The Stoic concept of the “dichotomy of control” is a key tool for maintaining peace of mind. It divides life into two categories: things we can control and things we cannot. Our thoughts, actions, and attitudes are within our control. External events, other people’s actions, and the future are beyond our control.
This distinction helps individuals focus their energy where it matters. If a Stoic loses their job, they do not dwell on the loss itself but instead focus on how they will respond. By shifting attention away from the uncontrollable, Stoicism offers a path to inner stability and resilience.
#5. Emotional Resilience
Stoicism does not seek to eliminate emotions but to master them. Fear, anger, and sadness are natural but should not dictate our actions. The Stoics saw emotions as judgments—if we believe something is truly bad, we will feel distress. However, by changing our perception, we can lessen emotional suffering.
Seneca advised reflecting on emotions before acting. Instead of reacting impulsively, a Stoic steps back, analyzes the situation, and responds rationally. This practice builds emotional resilience, allowing people to remain calm even in difficult circumstances. The goal is not to suppress feelings but to ensure they do not control one’s decisions.
#6. Indifference to External Circumstances
Stoicism teaches that external circumstances—wealth, reputation, even physical health—are not inherently good or bad. What matters is how we respond to them. A Stoic can be rich or poor, healthy or sick, but their inner peace remains unchanged because they do not depend on external conditions for happiness.
This principle does not mean apathy but rather detachment. Marcus Aurelius, despite being an emperor, lived simply and valued wisdom over luxury. He believed that true freedom comes from not being enslaved by external desires. A Stoic focuses on internal virtue, knowing that external events are unpredictable and often beyond control.
#7. The Practice of Reflection
Daily reflection is an essential Stoic practice. By reviewing their actions, thoughts, and emotions, Stoics improve their character and maintain self-awareness. Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations is a prime example of this habit—he wrote personal reflections to remind himself of Stoic principles.
This practice allows individuals to learn from mistakes and reinforce positive habits. By reflecting on what went well and what can be improved, a Stoic continuously works toward becoming a better person. This form of self-examination strengthens discipline and helps align one’s actions with Stoic values.
#8. Universal Brotherhood
Stoicism promotes a sense of global citizenship. The Stoics believed that all people share a common rational nature and should treat each other with justice and kindness. Epictetus taught that a Stoic does not divide people based on nationality, wealth, or status. Instead, they see humanity as one interconnected whole.
This idea challenges selfishness and tribal thinking. It encourages individuals to act with compassion and fairness toward others. A Stoic does not seek personal gain at the expense of others but instead contributes to the well-being of society. This principle remains relevant today, promoting unity and ethical responsibility in an often divided world.
Similarities Between Absurdism and Stoicism
#1. Emphasis on Personal Responsibility
Both Absurdism and Stoicism emphasize the importance of personal responsibility. They reject the idea that external forces—whether fate, gods, or society—dictate how one must live. Instead, they encourage individuals to take ownership of their own existence and choices.
Absurdism: Responsibility in Defiance
In Absurdism, personal responsibility is tied to the idea of revolt. Since life has no inherent meaning, it is up to the individual to define their own purpose. Camus argues that one must embrace existence fully, despite its lack of ultimate significance. Responsibility lies in facing the absurd without retreating into false hopes or illusions.
Stoicism: Responsibility in Virtue
Stoicism sees responsibility through the lens of virtue. Since external events are beyond our control, the only thing we can truly govern is our own moral character. A Stoic takes responsibility by acting rationally, justly, and ethically, regardless of circumstances. Personal discipline ensures a meaningful and honorable life.
#2. Acceptance of Life’s Challenges
Both philosophies recognize that suffering and struggle are unavoidable. They do not promise an escape from hardship but instead teach ways to endure and even thrive despite difficulties.
Absurdism: Embracing the Struggle
Absurdism acknowledges that life is full of challenges, yet insists that individuals should continue living with defiant joy. The story of Sisyphus illustrates this idea—despite his eternal punishment, he continues pushing the rock, finding meaning in the struggle itself.
Stoicism: Enduring with Resilience
Stoicism teaches that hardships are part of nature’s order and should not be feared. Seneca advised preparing for adversity, while Marcus Aurelius reflected on how challenges are opportunities for personal growth. A Stoic does not complain about difficulties but instead sees them as tests of character.
#3. Focus on Inner Strength and Resilience
Both Absurdism and Stoicism emphasize the importance of inner resilience. They reject reliance on external sources of happiness and instead encourage individuals to cultivate internal stability.
Absurdism: Strength in Facing Meaninglessness
For an absurdist, resilience comes from embracing life without relying on artificial meaning. Since the universe offers no inherent purpose, the individual must find joy in their own actions. By acknowledging the absurd and continuing to live, one demonstrates strength.
Stoicism: Strength in Rational Control
Stoicism teaches that true resilience comes from mastering one’s thoughts and emotions. A Stoic does not allow external events to dictate their inner peace. Through self-discipline and rational thinking, they maintain stability regardless of what happens around them.
#4. Rejection of External Control Over Happiness
Both philosophies argue that happiness should not be dependent on external circumstances. They see external factors—such as wealth, status, and recognition—as unreliable sources of fulfillment.
Absurdism: Freedom from Illusions
Absurdism rejects traditional sources of happiness, such as religion, destiny, or material success. Since life has no set meaning, clinging to external hopes only leads to disappointment. Instead, happiness must be found in living authentically, without illusions.
Stoicism: Freedom from Attachment
Stoicism teaches that happiness is found in virtue and rationality rather than in possessions or achievements. A Stoic remains content regardless of external changes because they do not attach their well-being to things they cannot control.
#5. Living in the Present Moment
Both philosophies encourage focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. They emphasize direct engagement with life as it unfolds.
Absurdism: Experience Over Expectation
Absurdism values direct experience. Camus argues that since life has no ultimate purpose, the best way to live is by immersing oneself in the present. This means appreciating beauty, relationships, and emotions without seeking deeper meaning beyond them.
Stoicism: Presence Through Rationality
Stoicism encourages mindfulness by focusing on what can be controlled in the moment. Marcus Aurelius frequently reminded himself to act justly in the present rather than worry about things outside his control. By staying present, a Stoic avoids unnecessary anxiety and regret.
#6. Finding Meaning in the Face of Adversity
Although Absurdism and Stoicism take different approaches to meaning, both acknowledge that people must create their own sense of purpose, especially when facing difficulties.
Absurdism: Meaning Through Defiance
Absurdism does not offer an objective meaning to life but suggests that meaning comes from the act of living itself. Camus argues that by choosing to live fully, despite knowing life has no inherent purpose, individuals create their own significance.
Stoicism: Meaning Through Virtue
Stoicism finds meaning in moral character and wisdom. Instead of searching for an external purpose, Stoics believe that a good life is one lived in accordance with reason and virtue. Meaning is found in daily actions and ethical living.
#7. Detachment from External Events and Outcomes
Both philosophies promote a form of detachment—Absurdism through acceptance of absurdity, and Stoicism through control over one’s mind. They argue that external events should not dictate one’s well-being.
Absurdism: Letting Go of Ultimate Answers
Absurdism detaches from traditional meaning-making structures. Camus suggests that instead of searching for universal truths, people should accept life’s randomness and focus on their personal experiences. By letting go of the need for ultimate answers, one gains freedom.
Stoicism: Letting Go of Uncontrollable Events
Stoicism teaches that attachment to outcomes leads to suffering. If an individual desires success, love, or wealth, they risk disappointment. Instead, Stoics practice detachment by focusing on effort rather than results. They accept whatever happens with equanimity.
#8. Encouragement of Authentic Living
Both philosophies emphasize authenticity. They reject conformity and encourage individuals to live in alignment with their own understanding of existence.
Absurdism: Living Without False Hopes
Absurdism teaches that authenticity means rejecting false comforts and illusions. Camus argues that instead of relying on external beliefs for meaning, individuals must face the absurd honestly. This leads to a life lived fully, without self-deception.
Stoicism: Living by Rational Principles
Stoicism defines authenticity through adherence to virtue. A Stoic does not act out of fear, desire for approval, or external rewards. Instead, they live according to rational principles, making choices based on wisdom rather than impulse.
Differences Between Absurdism and Stoicism
#1. Attitude Toward Life’s Meaning
Absurdism and Stoicism have fundamentally different views on whether life has meaning. Absurdism denies any inherent meaning, while Stoicism believes meaning is found in virtue and reason.
Absurdism: Life Has No Inherent Meaning
Absurdism, as defined by Albert Camus, asserts that life has no predetermined meaning. The universe is indifferent to human existence, and any search for ultimate purpose is met with silence. Instead of despairing, the absurdist embraces this lack of meaning and chooses to live in defiance of it.
Stoicism: Meaning is Found in Virtue
Stoicism, on the other hand, believes meaning comes from living in accordance with nature and reason. A Stoic finds purpose in moral character, wisdom, and self-discipline. Rather than searching for meaning outside themselves, they cultivate it through virtuous actions.
#2. Response to the Absurd or Challenges
Both philosophies acknowledge life’s challenges but respond differently. Absurdism embraces defiance, while Stoicism embraces acceptance.
Absurdism: Defiance Against the Absurd
Camus suggests that the best response to the absurd is rebellion—continuing to live fully despite knowing that life lacks ultimate purpose. The absurdist does not surrender to despair but also does not fabricate comforting illusions. They live with an awareness of life’s absurdity while still engaging in it.
Stoicism: Acceptance of Fate
Stoicism teaches amor fati, or the love of fate. Instead of resisting life’s hardships, a Stoic accepts them as part of the natural order. They see every challenge as an opportunity to practice virtue. Acceptance, rather than rebellion, is the key to inner peace.
#3. Relationship with Emotions
Absurdism and Stoicism differ in their views on emotions. Absurdism values emotional experience, while Stoicism seeks emotional discipline.
Absurdism: Emotions as Part of the Human Experience
Absurdists do not suppress emotions. Camus suggests that joy, sadness, and passion should be embraced as part of life’s richness. The absurdist acknowledges that emotions are real and valid, even if life has no ultimate meaning.
Stoicism: Mastering Emotions Through Reason
Stoicism teaches that emotions should not control a person’s actions. While Stoics do not deny emotions, they believe that excessive attachment to them leads to suffering. Through reason and self-discipline, a Stoic seeks to regulate their emotions rather than be ruled by them.
#4. Role of Virtue
Stoicism places virtue at the center of life, while Absurdism does not define a moral framework.
Absurdism: No Universal Moral Standard
Absurdism does not prescribe a specific moral code. Since life has no inherent meaning, morality is subjective. An absurdist creates their own ethical approach based on personal experience rather than universal principles.
Stoicism: Virtue is the Highest Good
Stoicism defines a clear moral framework based on wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance. Living virtuously is not just an option—it is the ultimate purpose of life. A Stoic’s actions are guided by rational ethics rather than personal preference.
#5. View on the Afterlife or Ultimate Purpose
Absurdism and Stoicism take different stances on metaphysical questions. Absurdism generally rejects them, while Stoicism engages with them.
Absurdism: No Concern for the Afterlife
Absurdism dismisses questions about the afterlife as irrelevant. Since the absurdist focuses on life as it is, they do not concern themselves with what happens after death. Whether or not an afterlife exists, it does not change the absurd nature of existence.
Stoicism: Belief in a Rational Universe
Many Stoics believed in a rational, ordered cosmos governed by divine reason (logos). While Stoicism does not explicitly promise an afterlife, it suggests that the universe follows a purposeful structure. Some Stoics, like Marcus Aurelius, speculated about the soul’s survival after death, but this was not a core focus of the philosophy.
#6. Approach to External Circumstances
While both philosophies emphasize independence from external circumstances, they do so in different ways. Absurdism values freedom through rebellion, while Stoicism values freedom through detachment.
Absurdism: Freedom Through Living Without Illusions
Absurdists free themselves by rejecting imposed meanings. They do not seek validation from external circumstances but instead live on their own terms. Camus describes the absurd hero as someone who fully embraces life despite knowing its lack of inherent purpose.
Stoicism: Freedom Through Detachment
Stoicism teaches freedom by detaching from external outcomes. A Stoic does not seek happiness in wealth, reputation, or success. Instead, they focus on what is within their control—living virtuously and maintaining inner peace regardless of circumstances.
#7. Concept of Happiness and Fulfillment
The two philosophies define happiness differently—Absurdism as joy in the face of meaninglessness, and Stoicism as peace through virtue.
Absurdism: Happiness in the Act of Living
For the absurdist, happiness is found in embracing life despite its absurdity. Camus describes Sisyphus, condemned to push a rock up a hill for eternity, as happy because he accepts his fate and finds meaning in the struggle itself.
Stoicism: Happiness Through Virtue
Stoicism defines happiness (eudaimonia) as a life lived in accordance with reason and virtue. A Stoic does not depend on external pleasures but finds fulfillment in wisdom and self-discipline. True happiness comes from inner stability, not from external events.
#8. Use of Rational Thought
Both Absurdism and Stoicism value rational thought, but they apply it in different ways.
Absurdism: Reason as a Tool for Acknowledging the Absurd
Absurdists use reason to recognize life’s absurdity. Camus argues that logical thought leads to the realization that the universe does not provide inherent meaning. However, reason is not used to impose artificial structure—it is simply a means of understanding the absurd condition.
Stoicism: Reason as a Guide for Living
Stoicism sees reason as the foundation of a good life. A Stoic uses rational thought to control emotions, make moral decisions, and accept life’s challenges. The ability to think clearly and logically is what allows a Stoic to achieve peace and virtue.
Conclusion
Absurdism and Stoicism offer different ways to confront life’s challenges. Absurdism embraces the lack of inherent meaning, encouraging defiance and joy in the face of the absurd. Stoicism, on the other hand, finds meaning in virtue, focusing on reason, discipline, and acceptance. Both philosophies emphasize resilience, personal responsibility, and independence from external circumstances.
While they diverge in their approach to meaning, emotion, and fate, they share a commitment to living authentically. Whether through rebellion or rational control, both provide a path to inner strength. The choice between them depends on how one views meaning, suffering, and personal fulfillment.