ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the role of determinism (compatibilism) in Stoic philosophical therapy and how this was an important aspect of early twentieth century rational psychotherapy, although largely ignored in modern CBT. Paul Dubois especially believed that the philosophy of determinism could help clients alleviate emotional distress, particularly anger and frustration with others. The Stoics were compatibilists who believed that individual free will was compatible with universal causal determinism, and the reasons for this philosophical position are explained in simple terms. Stoic acceptance of Fate is compared to Ellis’ notion of general “frustration tolerance” in REBT. Ellis’ criticisms of Stoic “fatalism” are explored and addressed. The relationship between Stoicism and empathy is explained – by assuming that there are physical causes for the actions of authors we’re less likely to view them as absolutely responsible in the way that we do when strongly blaming others.
