How Modern CBT Originates from Ancient Stoicism and Marcus Aurelius

How Modern CBT Originates from Ancient Stoicism and Marcus Aurelius

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), one of the most effective psychological treatments today, has deep roots in ancient Stoicism. The core idea behind both Stoicism and CBT is that our thoughts shape our emotions and behaviors. This connection was famously explored by Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, in his Meditations, where he emphasized that suffering comes not from events themselves but from how we interpret them.

Albert Ellis, the founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), one of the first forms of CBT, openly credited Stoicism as a major influence. He was particularly inspired by Epictetus' idea that "people are disturbed not by things, but by their view of things." Aaron T. Beck, who later developed CBT, took a similar approach, focusing on how irrational and negative thought patterns create emotional distress and mental disorders.

CBT and Stoicism share practical strategies for managing emotions. Both encourage examining thoughts critically, disputing negative beliefs, and cultivating resilience. Marcus Aurelius, for instance, advised people to question their fears and desires, much like modern CBT challenges cognitive distortions.

By reviving these ancient insights, Ellis and Beck created a structured, scientific approach to emotional well-being. Their work shows that wisdom from nearly 2,000 years ago still holds powerful lessons for modern psychology.

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