The Stoics did not ask that we ignore cruelty, deception, exploitation or violence. Likewise, they didn’t expect us to continue associating with those who repeatedly harm us. Their central request is much harder; to view harmful behaviour in a clear and objective manner, respond justly (with actions befitting justice), and to not allow hatred and revenge to dominate our character reference point.
This is a significant distinction that rejects two temptations: irrational tolerance or “he misunderstood” while he continues to hurt others; the second is that we imitate the dishonest, aggressive or malicious behaviours of others by being dishonest, aggressive, or malicious ourselves.
For the Stoic, there are many acts of wrong and many ways that one can cause harm to another; however, rage does not provide the clearest direction for how to respond.
