The stoics and the Sex Pistols: Philosophical roots of punk rebellion go back to ancient Greece
On January 31, John Lydon will turn 68. Perhaps better known as Johnny Rotten, the frontman for the Sex Pistols and Public Image Ltd may not be the most obvious choice for last man standing among the epically burnt-out inaugural class of punk rock stardom. After all, it’s hard to stay angry for seven decades. We should mull over the reasons for his success, which might begin with the fundamental question: Is it a requirement of the genre that a punk must be angry?
If we’re to go by the title of Lydon’s memoir, "Anger is an Energy," it’s perhaps true that most punks see their affinity through the lens of anger. As a countercultural movement in the 1970s, both the people and their music have often been characterized this way. The energy is raw, the music is aggressive, and the attitude is defiant. Lydon has even defied himself as of late. While the Sex Pistols had often seemed to favor left-wing political stances, over the past few years, Lydon has raised more than a few eyebrows on both sides of the aisle for giving a rather conservative thumbs up to Donald Trump, Brexit, and even Queen Elizabeth II. These endorsements call to mind that other famous Johnny, of the Ramones, who was a staunch supporter of the Republican Party and hailed Reagan as the greatest president of his lifetime.
While Lydon’s turn toward conservatism seems designed to provoke outrage, it prompts a closer examination of the punk movement’s ethos, using Lydon and the Sex Pistols as archetypal examples. At first glance, Lydon’s controversy-stirring soundbites seem disconnected from the philosophical stance of stoicism, an ancient Greek ideology where the energy is controlled, the music is virtuous and the attitude is resilient. However, a closer look at Lydon’s punk life through the ages must acknowledge the evolving nature of countercultural political positions and their shifting meanings over time. This complex interplay sheds light on Lydon’s journey, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of his rebellion using the principles of stoicism to point the way toward Lydon’s fountain of youth.
A little over two thousand years before "Never Mind the Bollocks," around 300 BCE, a guy named Zeno of Citium founded the Stoic school of philosophy. He advocated for living in harmony with nature, focusing on only those things in life that we can truly influence and accepting hardships that cannot be changed. The school encouraged people to cultivate virtues that included temperance, courage, justice and wisdom. Well, the Sex Pistols were not exactly role models of moderation and restraint in their consumption habits, but don’t those three other stoic virtues sound a lot like punk values?
In the tumultuous era of the 1970s, the pioneering punks of the Sex Pistols emerged as a band from a backdrop of social unrest, economic hardship and political disillusionment. Their music and attitude became a voice for expressing the frustrations of their generation as it was caught in a rapidly changing world. Through their rebellious music, they channeled a form of stoicism that was tailored to their historical circumstances. Lydon contributed his unique personality to become an iconic music force that aligned with the stoic ideals of authenticity, resilience and a focus on what’s within one’s control.
First, punk rock encapsulates the stoic notion of living authentically and resisting societal pressures. Stoicism encourages people to be true to themselves and not simply give in to normativity, to mainstream social expectations. The punks rejected majoritarian culture and the constraints it attempted to impose, advocating instead for an individualism that included the freedom to express oneself without compromise.
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Second, stoicism emphasizes that adversity and struggle should be met with courage and resilience. In their lyrics and performances, the Sex Pistols often touched on societal and personal hardships. They address topics like unemployment, disenfranchisement and overall disillusionment with systems that seem indifferent to the challenges faced by young people. In doing so, they exhorted their audience to confront these issues head-on, echoing the stoic ideal of facing opposition with fortitude and resilience.
Third, stoic philosophy offers a prototype for a circle of influence versus circle of concern, or what we nowadays credit to Stephen R. Covey’s best-selling book, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." While our thoughts, actions and responses to situations are within our control, other peoples’ actions and external events are beyond our control. Just like stoicism, the punk movement advocated focusing on acting where change can actually be made. Through their music and activism, the Sex Pistols undermined the status quo, took control of their own destiny, and fought for their rights.
This essay will stage dive into the details of these three points, providing detailed examples from their one and only studio album to explain how Lydon and the Sex Pistols represent a stoic form of rebellion. These punks were determined to keep it real as a call to arms against perceived injustices and a rallying cry for each of us to maintain our inner strength when facing external chaos. At their core, the Sex Pistols relentlessly pursued their own principles, becoming an unexpected but fitting ally that brings modern momentum to the ancient philosophy of stoicism.
Authenticity and Anarchy
Stoicism, a school of philosophy that emerged in ancient Greece, emphasizes the importance of living a life of authenticity and resisting the pressures of conformity. The Stoics believed in aligning one's actions and beliefs with nature and reason, advocating for a life guided by virtue and wisdom rather than being swayed by societal expectations. This commitment to keeping it real and mustering resistance to conformity is deeply ingrained in Stoic teachings, as evident in works such as "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius and "Discourses" by Epictetus.
In "Meditations," Marcus Aurelius, the prominent Stoic philosopher best known as an emperor of Rome, reflects on the pursuit of an authentic life. He emphasizes the notion that one should live in accordance with one's own principles and virtues, regardless of societal pressures. Aurelius encourages individuals to stay true to their beliefs, innermost values, and rationality. He suggests that external influences and opinions should not sway one's commitment to living a virtuous life, resulting in the kind of raw and genuine living that can only stem from inner conviction.
Epictetus, another influential Stoic philosopher, expounds on the idea of authenticity and resistance to conformity in his "Discourses." Epictetus is fairly punk in his own right. He was born a slave to the secretary of Roman Emperor Nero and became disabled after his master broke his leg. Yet he took what action he could despite all he suffered. Epictetus was permitted to study philosophy and in becoming gradually more educated he managed to raise his social status until he was eventually freed, from which point onward he paid it forward by teaching Stoicism in Rome. He argues that individuals possess the ability to exercise control over their own judgments and reactions, emphasizing the importance of aligning these with reason and virtue. Epictetus stresses the significance of living in harmony with one's inner principles, irrespective of societal expectations or external pressures. By doing so, he believes one can achieve a sense of authenticity that is more or less immune to any external influence.
Seeking authenticity and resisting conformity are fundamentally principled actions for leading a good and meaningful life. These commitments form the bedrock of Stoic philosophy and remain a timeless guide for purposeful living, which the Sex Pistols exemplified when they burst onto the music scene with their groundbreaking first (and last) studio album, "Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols." This iconic work, full of explicit language and an unapologetic rejection of societal norms, upended the music industry's status quo by encapsulating the ethos of authenticity and a vehement resistance to conformity.
Amidst a musical landscape dominated by polished and controlled sounds, these guys represented a breath of raw, unfiltered air. Their defiant stance disrupted the notion of music business as usual, opting for a visceral sound resonating with the frustrations and disillusionment of their generation. This rebellion against the polished and controlled music of the time went beyond mere stylistic choice. It was a rebellion of the highest order against the one size fits all artifice that had permeated the music industry. The album asserted that music should reflect genuine emotions and experiences, not a manufactured product designed to cater to the masses.
The track "Anarchy in the U.K." stands as a quintessential embodiment of this rejection of conformity and a resolute embrace of authenticity. Filled with dissatisfaction and rebellion, its lyrics declare disdain for a society characterized by hypocrisy and oppression. Phrases that celebrate anarchy and even the antichrist leave no room for ambiguity. They reflect a deep-seated desire to break free from the stifling expectations of society and to express true selves, regardless of how disruptive or unconventional that might be.
Lydon’s vocals unequivocally confront societal labels and norms imposed on his age group, embodying a fervent rejection of conformity that echoed Stoic philosophy's emphasis on living authentically. The Stoics and the Sex Pistols both believed that authenticity came from aligning one's actions and beliefs with their true self, irrespective of external expectations. As he repeatedly snarls "I wanna be anarchy," the song becomes a battle cry against the constriction of individuality, encapsulating the essence of the punk movement. emerging as a direct response to societal constraints and conventions.
Another track from their seminal album is "Submission." It is a defiant anthem against societal pressures to conform. The very title of the song challenges the prospect of bowing down to authority. The lyrics convey a sense of rebellion against being forced into submission. This refusal to yield or surrender aligns with Stoic ideals by emphasizing the importance of aligning one's actions with their true self against mainstream odds.
On the track "New York," we see a similar resistance to conformity and an inclination to embrace the unorthodox. The song challenges conventional views, especially about cities and the glamor supposedly associated with them. The Sex Pistols, in their characteristic provocative style, demystify the allure of places like New York City and question the established narratives surrounding urban life. They metaphorize NYC as a crucifix, representing the burdens and pressures that come with big city life, challenging the more romanticized depiction of cities. In challenging conventional views of urbanity, the Sex Pistols demonstrate their willingness to break away from established norms and venture into uncharted territory, both musically and ideologically. This willingness to challenge and question the status quo aligns with the Stoic idea of examining and challenging our beliefs and societal norms to ensure they align with reason and virtue.
Throughout the album, the music of the Sex Pistols embodied punk’s rebellious spirit while inadvertently echoing Stoic philosophy. The ethos of punk and its echo of Stoic ideals extends of course to the band members themselves. Lydon was a prominent figure in the punk movement's rejection of societal norms and embrace of personal authenticity. His Stoic demeanor was evident in his resilience and composure in the face of immense criticism and adversity. Despite the backlash and controversies surrounding the band, he remained unwavering in his artistic vision, displaying the Stoic virtue of courage in pursuing his authentic path, regardless of external judgments and hardships. He was steadfast and determined to stay true to himself.
Resilience and Rottenness
Stoicism places significant emphasis on resilience and the confrontation of adversity. Stoic teachings encourage individuals to develop inner strength and fortitude in the face of challenges, promoting the idea that we can maintain equanimity and wisdom even amidst life's most difficult circumstances. The writings of Stoic philosophers such as Seneca and Epictetus highlight these themes, emphasizing the power of bouncing back from opposition with courage and wisdom.
Seneca, a prominent writer of tragedies and advisor to Emperor Nero, expounds on resilience and the confrontation of adversity in his work "Letters From a Stoic." Seneca advocates for building mental and emotional capacity by preparing for and flexibly confronting the challenges that life presents. He believes that hardships provide an opportunity to test our principles and develop the strength to endure struggle. Seneca's writings often encourage individuals to face trouble head-on, using it to cultivate wisdom and fortify the soul.
Epictetus reinforces the theme of resilience and the confrontation of adversity in his "Enchiridion," a handbook of practical advice for Stoics, in addition to the "Discourses" we’ve already discussed. Epictetus teaches that individuals have control over their own reactions and attitudes toward external events, especially adverse ones. He emphasizes that we should accept what cannot be changed and focus on what can be controlled — our own thoughts and actions. Through this approach, one can engage in confrontation with a sense of inner peace and strength.
Another Stoic concept generally attributed to Epictetus is amor fati, or the love of fate, which also plays a vital role in resilience and confronting adversity. Stoics believe that accepting and embracing all facets of life, even the challenging parts, is essential to building resilience. By practicing the love of fate, we transform our perspective on suffering, viewing it as an opportunity for growth and a chance to demonstrate resilience in the face of life's trials. Stoicism emphasizes that the invaluable tool of true resilience comes from within each of us.
In a surprising intersection with Stoic philosophy, the music of the Sex Pistols often encapsulates these same principles by promoting inner strength and blunt confrontations with adversity. There are four tracks from "Never Mind the Bollocks" where Lydon’s rotten call-outs are particularly effective: "Bodies," "Holidays in the Sun," “Problems” and “Seventeen.” Let’s consider these potent examples of his rebellious streak of Stoicism.
In "Bodies," the Sex Pistols are tackling the highly controversial topic of abortion and the societal judgment that accompanies any decision to seek one. The lyrics are an unflinching confrontation of the social taboo surrounding this issue, presenting a brutal and often uncomfortable reality that forces listeners to face inconvenient truths. Lydon has said he used details that were given to him by an acquaintance who’d had several abortions. At the time of the song’s release, critics largely agreed that the song was anti-abortion. Later, Lydon would clarify that he was only seeking to demonstrate all the mixed feelings invested in the gravity of such a decision, and he considers the song neither anti- nor pro-abortion.
This confrontational approach in "Bodies," which also included five f-bombs in quick succession during the middle of the song, is a clear embodiment of Stoic resilience. The band does not shy away from addressing such a polarizing issue, even in the face of a predictable backlash from both sides of the political aisles. Stoicism teaches that adversity should be met with courage and a willingness to address uncomfortable truths, and "Bodies" does just that. The song's lyrics and the band's delivery force listeners to grapple with the complexities of the issue, regardless of their personal beliefs.
Turning to "Holidays in the Sun," this track offers a less graphic critique of unthinking behaviors than “Bodies,” instead using consumerist culture and social disillusionment for its targets. The song exposes how shallow it is to seek happiness through materialism, as if possessions are the key to successfully conforming to societal expectations. The song urges listeners to break free of the marketing cycle and find meaning in more authentic sources. By confronting the emptiness of consumerism, the Sex Pistols encourage listeners to get beyond object-oriented, acquisitive pursuits. This call to move beyond materialism and find enduring resilience echoes Stoic ideals by challenging the prevailing notion that material possessions and societal approval are the ultimate sources of happiness.
Songs like "Bodies" and "Holidays in the Sun" showcase a unique brand of Stoic resilience because they highlight a stance not defined by indifference but by a willingness to confront adversity openly and to point-blank reject societal normativity. They demonstrate that resilience is not always about unwavering composure but about challenging the status quo, addressing discomforts with candor, and urging listeners to find strength beyond the lures of capitalism. This Stoic resilience reflects the band’s confrontational approach, a hallmark of their music and philosophy. Two other tracks, “Problems” and “Seventeen,” provide a conduit for rebellion and a voice for those seeking to challenge the status quo.
"Problems” is a direct confrontation of life's challenges, both personal and societal. The very title of the song demonstrates the essence of Stoic resilience in its unwavering capacity to confront challenges undaunted. The repetition of the word "problems" in the lyrics underscores the relentlessness of struggles that we face daily, both in our own hearts and in connecting to the wider, external world. The band discusses their challenges without being deterred or overwhelmed by their situation, enduring and surmounting life's trials and tribulations with unapologetic grace and determination. The song is an emblem of the band's ethos, demonstrating their fearless approach to life's issues.
In the song "Seventeen," we witness a depiction of the challenges and confusion associated with being a young person. Adolescence is a time of immense change and uncertainty, where social expectations often clash with personal identity. The lyrics of "Seventeen" capture this struggle, displaying a determination to confront issues related to the growing pains of young adulthood and the prospect of emerging stronger despite the chaos. The very act of addressing this youthful turbulence through music and lyrics is a Stoic act because it constitutes an assertion of control over one's narrative, irrespective of norms or societal expectations. Both “Problems” and “Seventeen” underscore the Stoic ethos of confronting life's challenges with courage, resilience, and an unyielding determination to live authentically in the face of systemic pressures. To write so many tracks with this focus ultimately means that the Sex Pistols themselves remain a symbol of resilience and rebellion, resonating with both the punk movement and the timeless teachings of Stoic philosophy.
No Lies, All Vacancy
Stoicism places significant emphasis on the idea of focusing on what is within one's control. This fundamental principle forms the cornerstone of Stoic teachings and plays a crucial role in how individuals approach life and make decisions. Stoic philosophers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius stressed the importance of distinguishing between what is within our control and what is beyond our control, advocating for a life centered on actions and attitudes that are within our sphere of influence.
Epictetus is well-known for articulating this concept in his "Enchiridion" and "Discourses." He repeatedly emphasizes the importance of recognizing what lies within our control and accepting what lies outside of it. According to Epictetus, the only things within our control are our own thoughts, opinions, desires and actions. He urges individuals to focus their attention and efforts on these aspects and to detach from any concerns beyond these, which include external circumstances and the actions of others. He proposes that by aligning our focus with what we can control, we attain a sense of inner peace and resilience. Our affect becomes less impacted by the precarity of external events and instead, we can concentrate on cultivating certain virtues like wisdom, courage, justice and temperance. These are qualities that are wholly within our control and contribute to our well-being and fulfillment.
Marcus Aurelius concurs with these sentiments in his "Meditations." He writes about the importance of directing our attention toward our own actions and attitudes, advising that we channel our efforts into fostering virtue and living in accordance with reason, even in the face of challenging external circumstances or the pressures of social expectation. By doing so, he suggests we can achieve a sense of tranquility and purpose regardless of the unpredictable nature of the rest of the world around us.
Stoicism emphasizes personal control and resilience in the face of external circumstances. It encourages individuals to take charge of their destinies, question authority, and challenge oppressive systems. The Sex Pistols used their music to express rebellion and defiance against societal norms. Songs like "God Save the Queen" and "Pretty Vacant" not only embody the spirit of punk but also resonate with Stoic philosophy.
"God Save the Queen" serves as a scathing critique of the monarchy and mainstream values or propriety, mirroring the Stoic sentiment of questioning authority and challenging power structures. This song debuted about two months after Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee, celebrating 25 years on the throne and a high-water mark for pro-monarchy sentiment in the UK. Lydon wanted to tear that down. The lyrics to “God Save the Queen” provoke listeners to take control of their destinies and not blindly accept oppressive systems like the English monarchy. By criticizing the systems and social pressures that prop up the Queen, the band urges listeners to reflect on their own values and question the authorities governing their lives. Perhaps an actual overthrow of the monarchy was not within the band’s control, but whether to show respect for the Queen within their own hearts and minds certainly was something they were empowered to decide on for themselves.
Similarly, "Pretty Vacant" conveys the emptiness of a conformist, consumer-driven society that is perpetually out to lunch. They criticize the shallowness of material pursuits and emphasize the need for genuine purpose instead of dismissive mainstream platitudes. The Sex Pistols encourage listeners to focus on what truly matters in life, aligning with Stoic principles of directing energy towards meaningful endeavors within one's control, as true contentment and fulfillment come from focusing on what is within our control.
Songs like “God Save the Queen" and "Pretty Vacant" channel Stoic philosophy's emphasis on focusing on what's within one's control. This music serves as a rallying cry for questioning authority and societal values, as well as for rejecting the emptiness of material pursuits. The songs of the Sex Pistols, whether critiquing authority or consumerism, inspire us as individuals to assert control over our beliefs and actions, ultimately steering our lives toward authenticity, purpose and resilience. Songs like "No Feelings" and "Liar" drill deeper into this notion by going beyond world politics and marketing to more intimate interpersonal territories, directly engaging with the challenges posed by deceit and emotion.
"No Feelings” expresses a lack of emotional connection or attachment. The lyrics push away love and its entanglements, encapsulating this detachment by rejecting emotional bonds that can often seem limiting or burdensome. The rejection of love and the desire to avoid being tied down defend and maintain the Stoic territory of what is within one's control. Emotions, being a product of our judgments and reactions to external events, fall within our sphere of control. By discouraging emotional entanglements, "No Feelings" embodies this Stoic ideal, urging individuals to exercise control over their emotional responses and attachments, ultimately leading to a sense of inner peace. The Stoics were not necessarily giving the thumbs down to any type of feeling, but they saw much of negative feeling as the byproduct of useless attachments.
In the song "Liar," the Sex Pistols accuse individuals of evasion and falsehood. The repetition of the word "liar" in the lyrics underscores the band's frustration with the proliferation of dishonesty in society. The song is a call for discernment and an urge to question what one is being told, aligning with the Stoic idea of focusing on the beliefs and judgments that are within one's control. Stoicism encourages individuals to scrutinize their beliefs, ensuring they measure up in the eyes of reason and virtue. By accusing others of lying and advocating for truthfulness, the Sex Pistols are calling for discernment and honesty in our judgments and interactions.
Lydon's life-long search for authenticity
In a world characterized by shifting norms and societal pressures, the quest for an honest rebellion is an enduring pursuit that finds echoes in both Stoic philosophy and the punk movement. The Stoics, with their ancient teachings emphasizing living in harmony with one's true nature and focusing on what is within our control, provide a timeless guide for leading a meaningful life rooted in authenticity. On the other hand, the Sex Pistols, pioneers of the punk rock movement in the 1970s, undermined social normativity and consumerist culture through their music, challenging individuals to break free from the shackles of mindless conformity, regardless of whether that conformity had its roots in liberal or conservative political ideology.
This essay has delved into the fundamental principles of Stoicism and the punk ethos, exploring how these seemingly disparate philosophies intersect in the realms of authenticity, resistance to conformity, resilience, and focusing on what is within control. But what is the enduring significance of authenticity, resistance to conformity, and the confluence of Stoicism and punk, especially in the life of old man Lydon? It remains for us to conclude by shedding light on how these principles remain relevant in today's world for us and for the birthday boy. We will explore the implications of these intersecting philosophies for individual well-being, societal transformation, and the pursuit of a more meaningful existence.
Our search for authenticity remains a profound and unceasing endeavor. Stoicism, with its emphasis on living in harmony with one's true nature, calls individuals to embrace their inherent rationality and moral compass, allowing them to make choices aligned with their highest values. Living authentically involves acknowledging one's true self, values and principles, while resisting the allure of conformity and external influences. The realization of the strength within our own minds and hearts is a powerful testament to the enduring relevance of Stoicism's call to focus on inner convictions, rather than succumbing to external pressures.
The punk movement, exemplified by the Sex Pistols, echoes this sentiment in provocative lyrics with a rebellious spirit that calls individuals to break free from the shackles of expectations, regardless of how disruptive or unconventional that may be. In a world filled with uniformity, authenticity becomes a powerful tool for self-discovery and the pursuit of genuine freedom. In today's context, authenticity remains a potent antidote to the pervasive culture of performance and the pursuit of external validation. Social media has amplified the pressure to conform to curated personas and projected ideals. We don’t have to imagine how the Sex Pistols would behave in the age of social media: Lydon’s official Instagram account has 24,000 followers. He follows no accounts besides his own band and has posted only once.
Resistance to conformity, another shared theme between Stoicism and punk, has profound implications for societal transformation and individual empowerment. Stoicism teaches us to resist the pressures of conformity by focusing on what is within our control, particularly our beliefs and actions. This resistance involves questioning societal norms and aligning our choices with our inner principles. In the case of Lydon, this includes sarcastically proclaiming to be an anti-Christ back in the 1970s and proclaiming himself a supporter of Donald Trump today. He provokes listeners to question any opinion achieving a critical mass that props up the status quo and asks us to assert control over our destinies. In today's world, Lydon’s resistance to conformity remains undeniable, from his formation of the successful anti-rock band ironically called Public Image Ltd to his refusal to attend the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony inducting the Sex Pistols.
Both Stoicism and punk philosophy advocate for resilience in the face of adversity. The Stoics believed that by focusing on our internal responses and maintaining inner virtue, we can navigate adversity with grace and wisdom. The Sex Pistols, often faced with self-created controversy and external opposition, exemplified resilience in their confrontational music and public image. They embraced the challenges and backlash that came their way, and their unapologetic stance against conformity and societal norms reflected a resilience that is emblematic of the rebellious punk spirit. In our contemporary context, resilience was probably the most frequently referenced virtue during the global crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic. For his part, John Lydon spent lockdown caring for his wife of more than 40 years, composing love songs for her, and trying to keep her spirits up before she passed away from Alzheimer’s complications in 2023.
The confluence of Stoicism and punk provides a compelling path to meaning and fulfillment in life. Stoicism offers a framework for individuals to act in accordance with their inner principles and values. The punk ethos encourages individuals to embrace their true selves and challenge societal norms. In a world where the pursuit of material success and external validation often obscures the path to genuine happiness, this call to live in accordance with nature and embrace authenticity stands as a timeless guide. The punk movement advocates for a life of meaning through self-expression, rebellion against the norms of the left and of the right, and a rejection of a conformist mindset. Lydon is a model for each of these three ideals.
The intersection of these philosophies invites us to reflect on the choices we make and the lives we lead. Lydon calls us to question whether we are living authentically, resisting conformity and facing adversity with resilience. He urges us to confront normativity and embrace our individuality. In doing so, we embark on a path toward a more meaningful and fulfilling existence, recognizing that true happiness is found in living in accordance with our inner principles and values. In today’s world, the lessons from Stoicism and the punk movement resonate deeply, offering hope for a future where we are truly free to be ourselves.
