Hierocles was an ancient Greek Stoic philosopher who flourished in the early 2nd century CE, likely during the reign of the Roman emperor Hadrian. He is primarily known for his systematic treatise, Elements of Ethics (Ancient Greek: Ἐθικὴ Στοιχείωσις, Ethikē Stoicheiōsis), substantial excerpts of which have been preserved by the 5th-century CE anthologist Stobaeus. His work provides valuable insights into Stoic ethics, particularly the concept of oikeiôsis (appropriation or familiarization) and his influential model of concentric circles representing human social obligations.
Life and Context
Very little is known about the life of Hierocles beyond the fact that he was a Stoic philosopher. His flourishing period is generally placed in the early 2nd century CE, based on the content and style of his work, which aligns with the Middle Stoic period following Posidonius and preceding later figures like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, though he shows a more systematic approach to foundational Stoic principles. His surviving work suggests he was a didactic writer, aiming to systematically lay out Stoic ethical principles.
Elements of Ethics and Oikeiôsis
Hierocles' most significant contribution is his detailed exposition of oikeiôsis, a central Stoic doctrine. Oikeiôsis describes the process by which living beings develop an affinity for their own constitution and well-being. According to Hierocles, this begins at birth:
- Primary Oikeiôsis (Self-Preservation): All living creatures are innately "appropriated" to themselves; they instinctively recognize their own constitution and strive to preserve it and avoid what is harmful. For animals, this manifests as self-preservation and care for offspring.
- Secondary Oikeiôsis (Human Reason and Sociality): In humans, with the development of reason, oikeiôsis expands beyond mere self-preservation. Reason allows humans to understand their nature as rational and social beings. This leads to a natural affinity for other humans and a recognition of the importance of social bonds and justice. Hierocles argues that humans are naturally drawn to society and friendship, seeing them as integral to their rational well-being.
The Concentric Circles of Affection
Hierocles famously illustrates the concept of expanded oikeiôsis through the metaphor of concentric circles. He suggests that each individual stands at the center of a series of circles that represent their relationships and duties:
- First Circle: The individual's own mind and body.
- Second Circle: Immediate family (parents, siblings, spouse, children).
- Third Circle: Extended family (aunts, uncles, cousins).
- Fourth Circle: Fellow citizens (those of the same demos or city).
- Fifth Circle: Members of the same ethnic group or nation.
- Outermost Circle: All of humanity.
Hierocles' ethical exhortation is to strive to "contract" these circles, metaphorically pulling the outer circles closer to the center. This means extending one's concern, affection, and sense of duty more broadly. For example, one should try to feel towards one's cousins as one feels towards siblings, and towards fellow citizens as one feels towards extended family, and towards all humans as one feels towards fellow citizens. The ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between "self" and "other," recognizing the shared humanity and interconnectedness that underpins Stoic universalism. He particularly emphasizes the use of terms of endearment (e.g., calling a distant relative "cousin" rather than "third cousin") as a practical way to foster this contraction of circles.
Legacy and Significance
While Hierocles' complete works are lost, the extensive fragments preserved by Stobaeus are invaluable for modern scholarship on Stoicism. His systematic treatment of oikeiôsis and the clear, practical model of the concentric circles provide one of the most comprehensive accounts of Stoic social ethics. His work helps to fill gaps in our understanding of Stoic thought, especially concerning the psychological foundations of moral development and the practical application of Stoic principles to social duties, demonstrating how individual well-being and universal benevolence are intrinsically linked in the Stoic worldview.