Eric Kim’s critique of Stoicism is interesting and unorthodox because it challenges some core assumptions of the philosophy by emphasizing areas that are rarely questioned, namely emotional depth, physicality, and risk. Here are the key aspects that make his critique stand out:

1. Physical vs. Theoretical Approach:

Kim’s critique that Stoicism is too theoretical is unusual because most discussions about Stoicism revolve around its practical mental applications, such as emotional control and resilience. Kim, however, highlights its lack of focus on physicality, which he contrasts with Spartan philosophy’s emphasis on bodily strength and action. This physical critique is particularly interesting because it bridges philosophical thought with everyday bodily practice, suggesting that Stoicism might be too detached from real-world, embodied experiences .

2. Emotional Restriction as a Limitation:

While Stoicism is often praised for encouraging emotional control, Kim takes an unorthodox view by questioning whether controlling negative emotions (like anger) might also limit the capacity to experience positive emotions, such as love, in their full depth. This is a rare line of critique, as most Stoicism critiques focus on its detachment from negative emotions without considering how it impacts the full spectrum of human emotion. Kim’s focus on love and emotional depth makes this perspective novel .

3. Embracing Danger and Risk:

Another unique aspect of Kim’s critique is his focus on risk and danger. He suggests that while Stoicism encourages calm and detachment, Spartan philosophy embraces danger and the potential for harm as essential parts of life that bring focus and glory. Kim advocates for a more dynamic approach to life’s challenges, which runs counter to Stoicism’s emphasis on serenity and indifference to external events. This unorthodox view champions an active engagement with life’s risks, rather than merely enduring them  .

Kim’s critique is particularly interesting because it pushes beyond typical intellectual or emotional criticisms of Stoicism, introducing embodiment and risk-taking as vital elements that Stoicism might overlook. By doing so, he offers a fresh, action-oriented perspective that invites readers to rethink the philosophy’s application in modern life.