The philosophy of life of the late Stoic philosophers

This thesis examines the life philosophies of the prominent representatives of Late Stoicism, namely Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. In the study, the views of these philosophers on God, nature, and humanity are addressed within the framework of the concept of universal order; their teachings regarding the place of humans within the cosmic whole and the meaning of life are evaluated. In Stoic thought, the concept of virtue, which lies at the center of living in harmony with the universe, is treated in different dimensions within each philosopher's ethical understanding, and the relationship between individual life and social responsibility is revealed. Within the scope of the thesis, the role of humans in alignment with nature and the universal order and their egalitarian approach to society are emphasized; the inseparable link between individual virtue and social responsibility is highlighted. The benefits achieved through individual development create value not only for the person but also for society and cultures. In this context, the virtuous life journey undertaken by each individual contributes to the formation of virtuous and balanced societies. Furthermore, the thesis emphasizes that by choosing a virtuous life, the individual should act with awareness of the laws of nature and the universal order, make the life span between birth and death meaningful, and manage time consciously. The study demonstrates that topics such as human identity, how one should live, individual development, psychological resilience, and inner peace still serve as a guide for contemporary human life. In this regard, the thesis highlights the universal value of Stoic philosophy in illuminating human life in the modern world.