In this episode, we delve into Meditation 2.3 of Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations. We explore the concepts of Providence and the interconnectedness of the universe as understood by the Stoics. We discuss how everything in the cosmos, including human life, is part of a logical and stable system governed by natural laws. Additionally, we touch upon the Stoic view of change and how it contributes to the stability of the universe. The practical takeaway? Embrace the logical nature of the cosmos, unders...
Sep 02, 2024•27 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In today’s episode, we explore Meditations 2.2 by Marcus Aurelius, diving into the Stoic understanding of our bodies, the concept of the “god” in Stoicism, and the relationship between our physical body, life-sustaining breath, and rational mind. Marcus identifies these three parts of the human being and challenges us to take control of the only one we can—the governing self, or rational mind. We also touch on the Stoic concept of Logos, the naturalistic “god” that underpins the universe, and di...
Aug 26, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this first episode of Season 2, we dive into one of my favorite meditations from Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 2.1. I’ll be using the Farquharson translation throughout this season, and today, I’m excited to get started. Meditation Quoted: "Say to yourself in the early morning: I shall meet today inquisitive, ungrateful, violent, treacherous, envious, uncharitable men. All these things have come upon them through ignorance of real good and ill. But I, because I have seen that the nature of goo...
Aug 20, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In this primer episode for Season 2, I introduce the reboot of the podcast. If you're new here, welcome—I'm excited to have you join this journey. This season is not a reimagining but a refresh, building on the knowledge I've accumulated since I first started this podcast in 2022. While Season One was an exploratory beginning, Season Two aims to dive deeper into the Stoic canon with greater insight and understanding. In this episode, I explain some key Stoic vocabulary you'll need to know, such ...
Aug 13, 2024•25 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Welcome to Season 2 of Practical Stoicism! When I started this podcast in January 2022, I knew very little about Stoicism. Fast forward to today, and the podcast now averages around 4 million plays a year. Along the way, I've written over half a million words on Stoicism, co-authored a book, and gained recognition as a Stoic philosopher within the academic community. With all this growth and learning, I realized that some of the early episodes of this podcast may not be as accurate or insightful...
Aug 13, 2024•6 min
In this episode, I delve into the concept of identity from a Stoic perspective, prompted by recent thoughts and experiences. I discuss how we often identify with various subordinate identities, such as our gender, profession, nationality, or personal preferences, and how these can sometimes overshadow our true identity. I propose that, according to Stoic philosophy, we all share a single Cardinal Identity: Human Citizen of the Cosmos. This identity transcends all subordinate identities and unite...
Jul 30, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 230
In this episode, I open up about my own health challenges, sharing that while I am "blood healthy", I am also carrying around some excess weight. This personal context sets the stage for a broader discussion on health and Stoicism. I emphasize that taking care of our bodies is generally morally appropriate, but our approach to health must be contextually related to our abilities and circumstances. Stoicism teaches that the moral judgment of our approach to health is not linked to outcomes but to...
Jul 09, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 229
Welcome back, my dear Stoic progressor. In today’s episode, I dive into a topic that may seem unfamiliar to some but is deeply relevant to many – the pressures and anxieties faced by students in the Philippines. Drawing on personal insights and the experiences shared by a listener, I explore the unique challenges that Filipino students encounter, from economic hardships to intense familial expectations. As someone who has gained a unique perspective on Filipino culture through my marriage and pe...
Jul 02, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 228
In this episode, I take a fresh look at Hierocles' Circles of Concern and how my understanding of them has evolved. Communicating Stoicism to beginners involves striking a balance between simplicity and the depth of the philosophy, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. I address a recent discussion on the /Stoic subreddit that highlighted the problem of using complex Stoic terminology without fully understanding it. This can create a false sense of authority and perpetuate incorrect int...
Jun 25, 2024•21 min•Season 1Ep. 227
In this episode, I delve into the concept of fate within Stoic philosophy, a topic that often sparks varied opinions. The Stoics believed in a deterministic universe, where a physical causal chain dictates the flow of events. However, this idea can feel restrictive, suggesting that nothing we do could be otherwise. I explore how we can view this deterministic outlook as both true and untrue, using Chrysippus' analogy of the cylinder and the cone to illustrate how we react to external forces base...
Jun 18, 2024•18 min•Season 1Ep. 226
In this episode, I explore the complex relationship between Stoicism and the concept of equality. While the title may be partly clickbait, it also highlights a significant discussion on how Stoicism views equality and justice. I delve into how modern society has become disconnected from coherent moral reasoning, driven largely by raw emotions rather than philosophical principles. This episode is not an excuse to dismiss fairness or justice; rather, it's a call to understand these concepts throug...
Jun 11, 2024•22 min•Season 1Ep. 225
In this episode, I discuss the relationship between Stoicism and environmental responsibility. I emphasize that caring for the environment is not a political issue but a fundamental aspect of Stoic philosophy. I explore the Stoic belief in living in harmony with Nature, highlighting that Stoicism requires us to make morally just choices that respect the natural world. I explain that freedom, according to the Stoics, is the discipline to make virtuous choices that align with Nature's order. I cha...
Jun 04, 2024•22 min•Season 1Ep. 224
In this episode, I explore the fundamental differences between Stoicism and Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam), explaining why these systems are inherently incompatible. Religions personify God and base their moral frameworks on divine approval, while Stoicism views God as a natural, impersonal force synonymous with Nature itself. I discuss how one can adopt certain Stoic practices without fully embracing Stoicism, similar to appreciating elements of another religion without ...
May 28, 2024•22 min•Season 1Ep. 223
Good morning, Prokoptôn. In today's episode, I'm responding to a question from a Spotify listener named Blarka. The question is about how to think of or celebrate a birthday that coincides with the death of a brother or sister. This is a thoughtful question with a sad context, but it's an important topic. While Stoicism views death as an indifferent in terms of developing Virtue, it acknowledges the emotional impact it has on us. It's essential to remember that Stoics are allowed to have emotion...
May 21, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 222
In today's episode of Practical Stoicism, I delve into a challenging question often posed by newcomers to Stoicism: "If the Stoic Sage is purely aspirational, what motivation do we have to work on our character?" Addressing this, I explore why striving for unattainable ideals, such as perfect health or the perfect dinner, remains essential, despite their inherent impossibility. I draw parallels between the pursuit of excellence in various fields—be it medicine, fitness, or culinary arts—and the ...
May 14, 2024•15 min•Season 1Ep. 221
In this podcast episode, I delve into the Stoic approach to selecting a career or job, offering insights tailored for both high school students and adults. I stress the significance of assessing existing roles, ethical considerations, and personal motivations when embarking on the job search journey. Throughout the discussion, I provide practical advice on salary negotiation, benefits evaluation, and company research. Above all, I emphasize the Stoic principle of fulfilling one's duties in servi...
May 07, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 220
Like it says. See you May 6th, Prokoptôn. Take care until then! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Apr 18, 2024•4 min
Anya Leonard, creator of Classical Wisdom and Classical Wisdom for kids, is filling in for me today because my wife and I just had our first baby, THIS MORNING, and Anya is a dear friend who wants to help ensure I get a "paternity" leave. Thanks Anya! Everyone, please check out https://classicalwisdom.com to learn more about Anya, the First Philosophers, and other cool stuff from the Classical Age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Apr 08, 2024•28 min•Season 1Ep. 219
Apparently this episode got uploaded only in part. I'm sorry it took me nearly a month to realize it (been busy with the new baby), but this is the full episode. Thanks for letting me know and for being patient. In today's episode of "Practical Stoicism," I tackle the deeply personal and often challenging topic of improving self-esteem. At its core, low self-esteem is a lack of self-approval, a revelation that can evoke a powerful emotional response in many of us. As we delve into this subject, ...
Apr 05, 2024•24 min•Season 1Ep. 218
In today's episode of "Practical Stoicism," I explore the concept of living simply, not in the sense of minimalism as it's often portrayed—with a focus on physical belongings and a Scandinavian design aesthetic—but in the realm of simplifying our thoughts and, by extension, our lives. While Stoicism isn't about adopting an aesthetic of minimalism, it does advocate for simplicity over complexity in many aspects of life. I delve into how living simply, in a Stoic sense, means focusing on what trul...
Apr 02, 2024•25 min•Season 1Ep. 217
Who is the current Roman Emperor? Okay, so the Roman Empire no longer exists -- but if it did, who would have rightful claim to the throne? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Apr 01, 2024•9 min
In this practical episode of "Practical Stoicism," I delve into the critical art of forming good habits, a cornerstone of personal growth and self-improvement. Starting with a deep dive into the nature of bad habits—those that are not chemical addictions or compulsions but rather result from habituated choices—I draw from the profound insights of Epictetus on the realms of choice and control. I emphasize that our actions and behaviors are within our grasp, aiming to guide you through the transfo...
Mar 29, 2024•26 min•Season 1Ep. 216
In this enlightening episode of "Practical Stoicism," I delve into the profound realization that the search for purpose and meaning in life becomes increasingly urgent as we age. I explore the journey from the invincibility felt in youth to the mature quest for fulfillment, highlighting the importance of discovering a purpose that transcends the expectations of others. Drawing on the wisdom of Stoic philosophy and the teachings of Epictetus and Agrippinus, I've come to understand that true purpo...
Mar 26, 2024•24 min•Season 1Ep. 215
Ladies and gentlemen, A.A. Long. The man responsible for Stoicism's contemporary revival. We talk about free will, Zeno's criterion of truth, virtue ethics beyond the Classical period, and more. I hope you enjoy this special episode. -- Become a Patron: https://stoicismpod.com/members Subscribe to the weekly newsletter: https://practicalstoicism.net/subscribe Pre-order my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book A. A. Long's Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A._A._Long A. A. Long's website...
Mar 22, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 214
In today's episode, we embark on a Stoic journey to manage anger, exploring how Stoicism provides practical tools for transforming our emotional responses. I delve into the Stoic distinctions between proto-emotions and assented-to emotions, illustrating how understanding these concepts can empower us to master our anger. By examining the role of impressions and the importance of not hastily giving assent, I share insights on how we can approach life's challenges with a calm and rational mindset....
Mar 18, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 213
In today's episode, I delve into the pervasive issue of procrastination, a mental health symptom that seems to afflict us all in various degrees. From the stress of not being able to afford housing to the pressures of societal expectations, procrastination can manifest in many forms. The Stoics, with their practical philosophy, offered a solution to procrastination through the concept of Memento Mori, or "remember that you must die." By confronting our mortality, we're reminded of the limited ti...
Mar 15, 2024•24 min•Season 1Ep. 212
In this episode I delve into the painful experience of losing a relationship, particularly one that we didn't want to end. I highlight the acute distress caused by breakups, where someone actively chooses to leave, unlike death, which is inevitable and beyond anyone's control. I discuss how Stoicism-inspired reasoning can help alleviate the pain of heartache and navigate through the grief that follows a breakup. I emphasize the concept of "indifferents" in Stoicism, things that have no power ove...
Mar 11, 2024•21 min•Season 1Ep. 211
Greetings, listeners. It's remarkable to witness our community's growth, now exceeding 100,000 listeners every Monday and Friday. Your continued support is truly appreciated. Today's episode delves into a thought-provoking query posed by Griff, a dedicated listener and Patron, regarding the relevance of personality types within the context of Stoicism. Griff questions whether such classifications confine individuals rather than foster personal development. From my perspective, I maintain a degre...
Mar 08, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 210
In today's episode, I tackle the enduring Stoic principle that "Virtue is its own reward." This exploration is a personal journey into the heart of Stoicism, examining whether this ancient wisdom holds true in our contemporary lives, and I won't shy away from getting a bit salty or taking some swipes along the way. We begin with Meditation 11.4 as our focal point, which encourages us to reflect on our contributions to the common good and to find contentment in these efforts as our reward. This m...
Mar 04, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 209
In today's episode, I delve into the profound theme of Forgiveness within the framework of Stoicism, a topic that resonates deeply with both my personal experiences and the Stoic principles I strive to embody. I commence with a note of gratitude towards new Patrons – Dan Brann, Jenny Kay, and Jay – whose support is instrumental in dedicating myself fully to this podcast. For those contemplating joining our Patreon, it offers an ad-free listening experience, exclusive articles, discussions with s...
Mar 01, 2024•23 min•Season 1Ep. 208
