Philosophical Psychology: The Philosophical Theory of Epictetus and its Influence on the Psychological Theory of Albert Ellis
Published:
Mar 25, 2020
Keywords:
Epictetus; Albert Ellis; Stoicism; Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT); Philosophical Psychology; Irrational Beliefs; Cognitive Therapy; Virtue Ethics
Abstract
This article examines the profound connection between ancient Stoic philosophy and modern clinical psychology, specifically focusing on how the teachings of Epictetus (50–138 AD) served as the foundation for Albert Ellis's Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). The author explores the Stoic premise that it is not external events that disturb people, but rather the internal judgments and "impressions" (phantasiae) they form about those events. By analyzing Epictetus's emphasis on virtue, self-control, and the distinction between things within and outside our power, the paper illustrates how Ellis translated these philosophical tenets into a psychotherapeutic framework aimed at dismantling "irrational beliefs". The study highlights the transition from the Stoic "sage" to the psychologically healthy modern individual, concluding that the integration of philosophical logic into psychological practice remains a vital tool for achieving emotional tranquility and mental health.
Article Details
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Mantzanas, M. K. (2020). Philosophical Psychology: The Philosophical Theory of Epictetus and its Influence on the Psychological Theory of Albert Ellis . Ηθική. Περιοδικό φιλοσοφίας, (5), 17–28. https://doi.org/10.12681/ethiki.22686
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- No. 5 (2008)
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