- Stoic-Thought-0.mp3
- Stoic-Thought-0.mp4
- Stoic-Thought-I.mp3
- Stoic-Thought-I.mp4
- Stoic-Thought-space-intro.mp3
[Intro]
The more things change
(The more they stay the same)
It sure seems strange
(Playing this circular game)
[Verse 1]
Heraclitus
(Way ahead of the rest of us)
So change resistant
(And so persistent)
[Chorus]
The more things change
(The more they stay the same)
It sure seems strange
(Playing this circular game)
[Bridge]
Stoic thought
(Why? Why not?)
Stoic reflection
(Growing affection)
[Verse 2]
Nevertheless
(Illusion of progress)
Injustice persists
(The same old lists)
[Chorus]
The more things change
(The more they stay the same)
It sure seems strange
(Playing this circular game)
[Bridge]
Stoic thought
(Why? Why not?)
Stoic reflection
(Growing affection)
[Chorus]
The more things change
(The more they stay the same)
It sure seems strange
(Playing this circular game)
[Outro]
Stoic thought
(Why? Why not?)
ABOUT THE SONG
The philosophy behind the phrase “the more things change, the more they stay the same” reflects the idea that despite outward changes in circumstances, technology, or cultural shifts, certain underlying patterns, behaviors, or principles remain constant. It suggests a paradox in which apparent transformation does not necessarily lead to meaningful or fundamental change.
Key Philosophical Themes:
- Cyclical Nature of History:
The phrase aligns with the view that history tends to repeat itself. Even as societies evolve, human nature and core societal dynamics (e.g., power struggles, greed, resilience) often remain unchanged. - Human Nature and Behavior:
While external environments and technologies may change, the essential aspects of human nature—emotions, ambitions, and conflicts—persist. For example, technological advances may change how people communicate, but the underlying need for connection and community remains. - Illusion of Progress:
The statement can imply skepticism toward the idea of progress. Even as societies innovate or modernize, some believe the fundamental problems (e.g., inequality, injustice) persist, merely taking on new forms. - Existential and Stoic Reflections:
Philosophically, the phrase can encourage a stoic acceptance of life’s constancy. It suggests that while change is inevitable, there is a comfort in recognizing enduring truths or recurring patterns. - Resistance to Change:
The phrase also highlights how systems, traditions, or human tendencies often resist deep transformation, even when outward appearances shift. This can reflect a conservative worldview, emphasizing continuity over disruption.
Cultural and Philosophical Roots:
- The phrase is commonly attributed to French novelist Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr in the 19th century: “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose.”
- Philosophically, it resonates with ideas in Heraclitus (change as a constant) and stoic thought (acceptance of what cannot be changed).
In essence, this philosophy captures the tension between change and permanence, reminding us to look beyond surface-level transformations to understand deeper, enduring truths.