Courage Policy
| Document ID | SCR-POL-003 |
| Version | 1.0 |
| Effective Date | Sep 1, 2025 |
| Author | David V. |
Purpose
To establish that courage is the cognitive capacity that transforms rational understanding into action. Courage enables us to implement what lies within our control according to wisdom and reason, regardless of emotional obstacles, uncertainty, or threats to personal well-being. Courage enables our free will by making it unconfined and independent.
All practitioners shall continuously work to develop their courage through evidence-based methods and practice acting on rational conclusions despite emotional discomfort and potential physical danger, taking all reasonable safety precautions while refusing to let fear prevent necessary action.
Scope
This policy applies to all practitioners in all aspects of their implementation of Scriptan practices. All decisions and actions must align with the principles outlined herein.
Definitions
- Cognitive Capacity: The mental ability to process information, make judgments, and direct conscious responses.
- Reason: The cognitive capacity of processing information through logic and evidence to form reliable conclusions and guide effective action.
- Wisdom: The cognitive capacity to form accurate models of reality and apply them effectively to solve problems while maintaining focus on what lies within our sphere of influence.
Core Principles
Courage is the capacity that enables us to accept truth and reality as they are, regardless of the discomfort this might cause. It gives us the power to act according to reason, thus enabling us to be honest and decent.
Courage enables change and character growth.
Without it, it is impossible to accept and undergo transformations of our models of
reality, adjust our thoughts, and be honest with ourselves. Its absence is most often
the reason we refuse to align ourselves with proper understanding of the events and
circumstances that occur throughout our lives.
Honor and self-respect are directly tied to courage.
True freedom comes from free choice guided by reason and wisdom. We bear responsibility
for developing our courage capacity to the extent possible within our circumstances and
capabilities.
Courage is uniquely within our direct control.
Unlike external circumstances or others' actions, our choice to act on rational
conclusions despite fear or discomfort lies entirely within our sphere of influence.
References
- Epictetus, Enchiridion and Discourses
- Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
- Seneca, On the Shortness of Life, Letters to Lucilius
- Cleanthes and Chrysippus fragments (as interpreted in secondary Stoic literature)
Review & Revision
- This policy is subject to annual review by Scriptan governance or its delegated curators.
- Revisions may be made based on community feedback, philosophical developments, or practical insights gained through practice.
- Revisions may occur earlier if new philosophical insight warrants clarification or extension.