Philosophy For Our Times
The inner life of a stoic | Stoicism Series PART 5 | Massimo Pigliucci
Jan 21, 2025
Massimo Pigliucci, a philosophy professor and prominent advocate of Stoicism, shares insights on how ancient philosophy can address modern challenges. He discusses the evolution of skepticism and its relevance in today's technology-driven world. Pigliucci delves into personal growth during midlife crises through Stoic practices, emphasizing the pivotal principle of the dichotomy of control. Additionally, he reflects on the teachings of Epictetus, encouraging the audience to challenge their perceptions and improve emotional resilience.
24:37
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Quick takeaways
- Massimo Pigliucci highlights Stoicism's value in providing emotional resilience through understanding the dichotomy of control in life's challenges.
- He advocates for modern skepticism as a critical approach to navigating claims beyond scientific understanding while recognizing the evolution of knowledge.
Deep dives
The Journey to Stoicism
A midlife crisis can prompt individuals to reevaluate their life paths and philosophies, as illustrated by Massimo Pigliucci's personal journey. This period of introspection led him to explore various philosophies, including Buddhism and ancient Greek doctrines, before discovering Stoicism. Through his exploration, he learned that Stoicism is not about suppressing emotions, contrary to popular belief, but rather providing tools for navigating life's challenges. His engagement with Stoicism deepened through participating in Stoic Week, which connected him with a community and inspired his ongoing dedication to the philosophy.
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