The teachings of the Enchiridion are primarily based on which philosophical system?

The teachings of the Enchiridion are primarily rooted in Stoicism, a philosophical system that emphasizes rationality, self-control, and the importance of virtue as the highest good. Stoicism teaches that individuals should focus on what they can control, accept what they cannot, and find peace through understanding the natural order of the universe. The Enchiridion itself, attributed to Epictetus, presents practical guidance on how to apply Stoic philosophy to everyday life, advocating for an attitude of resilience in the face of difficulty and the cultivation of inner peace through virtue and wisdom.

Stoicism contrasts significantly with other philosophical systems mentioned in the options. Hedonism prioritizes the pursuit of pleasure as the highest good, which diverges from the Stoic focus on virtue over transient pleasures. Utilitarianism evaluates actions based on their consequences for overall happiness, placing less emphasis on individual virtue and character. Existentialism, on the other hand, emphasizes individual experience and the search for meaning, often rejecting objective moral systems, which is contrary to the Stoic belief in universal truths about virtue and moral conduct. Thus, Stoicism encapsulates the core teachings of the Enchiridion, emphasizing ethical living through rational thought and self-discipline.