In this episode I sit down with philosopher and author Massimo Pigliucci to talk about his book Beyond Stoicism—and why, in his view, no single philosophy can capture everything it means to live well. We dive into the limits of ancient Stoicism, what modern life can borrow from other Greco-Roman schools, and how practices like skepticism, tempered hedonism, and transcendence can enrich our pursuit of virtue today.
Key takeaways from this episode include:
— Stoicism was born from synthesis, and Seneca himself urged students to “scout” wisdom wherever it’s found.
— A plural, evolving philosophy of life may serve human nature better than rigid allegiance to one school.
— A balanced life draws on Stoic eudaimonia, Epicurean moderation, and skeptical humility.
— Temperance, especially with pleasures like food, drink, and social media, is essential—sometimes the Stoic move is total abstention until self-mastery returns.
— The Epicurean cure for the fear of death (“when death is, we are not”) remains one of the most rational and freeing insights in philosophy.
— Reconnecting with nature, exercising logic and critical thinking, and cultivating moments of awe are timeless practices for a flourishing life.
— Massimo’s forthcoming book How to Be a Happy Skeptic (Penguin/Random House, June 2026) explores Cicero’s life and the Stoic-skeptical blend as a model for thoughtful living today.
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