Exploring Seneca's Ideas and Writing Process

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In this chapter, they discuss the reasons for writing a book about Seneca's ideas and the challenges of researching his vast writings. They also explore some of the interesting things they discovered about Seneca, including his discussions on unconscious influence, the metaphor of having a clear destination in life, the similarities between his thinking and that of Epictetus, and the Stoic concept of God as pantheism rather than theism or atheism.

This interview of David Fideler covers his 2021 book titled, Breakfast with Seneca: A Stoic Guide to the Art of Living. His book provides a detailed look at the life of Seneca as a Stoic prokopton. David's book is intended for a general audience, and it is an easy and enjoyable read. Nevertheless, he provides extensive notes for those wishing to dig deeper. This book is rather unique because it provides a solid introduction to the basics of Stoic philosophical theory through the life and writings of a single ancient Stoic: Seneca. Chapter 9, titled Vicious Crowds and the Ties That Bind is particularly insightful and relevant in our time of political and social divisiveness. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Seneca's life and works. I will also make a great gift to friends and loved ones who are curious about Stoicism. A video version of this interview is available on YouTube