ABSTRACT
The Stoics laid great stress upon the study of Physics, as the only sound basis for a scientific rule of human conduct; and some of them, having especial regard to elevated dignity of the study of Theology, were disposed to rank this branch of philosophy as the highest and last of its three principal divisions. The larger number of subdivisions are made by Cleanthes, so as to treat separately of: the Foundations of Physics, generally called 'Metaphysics'; Physics proper, that is, the account of the Universe and its history; the final problems involved in the history of the Universe, such as its government by Divine Providence, the Existence of Evil, Free-will, and Chance; the problems of Religion, such as the existence of gods, their number, character, and claims on mankind; and the nature of Man, including modern subjects of Psychology and Physiology, and to some extent of Anthropology also, treated by the Stoics as a Kingdom governed by the Soul.
