In a thought-provoking conversation, Donald Robertson, a cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist and founder of Plato's Academy Centre, explores Stoicism's relevance today. He discusses the therapeutic roots of cognitive behavioral therapy in ancient philosophy, emphasizing emotion regulation and self-reflection. Topics include techniques for reframing experiences, coping with the pitfalls of social media, and the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius and Socrates. Robertson highlights the intersection of ancient practices with modern mental health approaches, offering insights for a meaningful life.
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Virtue as Stoicism's Core
Stoicism centers on virtue as the only true good, dismissing wealth and reputation as indifferent external goods.
In 'On Anger,' Seneca the Younger provides a thoughtful and instructive analysis of anger, laying bare its roots and exposing its many faces. The essay guides the reader through a series of reflections on understanding the cause of anger and learning how to control it. Seneca argues that anger is a powerful and destructive emotion that can harm the person experiencing it more than others, and he offers practical advice on how to manage and overcome it. The work remains relevant today, offering wisdom and eloquence on a complex emotion that has been a part of human experience since ancient times.
Waking Up
A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion
Sam Harris
In this book, Sam Harris argues that there is more to understanding reality than science and secular culture generally allow. He explores the scientific underpinnings of spirituality, suggesting that how we pay attention to the present moment largely determines the quality of our lives. The book is part memoir and part exploration, discussing the illusion of the self, the benefits of meditation, and the importance of understanding consciousness through both scientific and philosophical lenses.
How to Think Like Socrates
Donald Robertson
In 'How to Think Like Socrates', Donald J. Robertson masterfully recreates the setting and powerful ideas of ancient Athens, introducing modern readers to the birth of philosophy through the figure of Socrates. The book combines philosophy, history, and psychotherapy, highlighting the practicality of Socratic self-examination and rational reflection for a fulfilling life. It explores Socratic dialogues and their connection to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emphasizing the importance of questioning assumptions to alleviate distress and foster emotional well-being. The book is praised for its engaging narrative and innovative approach, making it highly accessible and recommended for those interested in philosophy and self-improvement[2][4][5].
The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius
Meditations is a series of 12 books written by Marcus Aurelius as private notes to himself. The work is a reflection of Stoic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of living in the present, controlling one's judgments, and maintaining ethical principles. Aurelius advocates for focusing on what can be controlled, avoiding distractions, and cultivating a rational and clear-minded nature. The book is divided into 12 books, each chronicling different periods of his life, and was likely written during his military campaigns along the Danube River[2][4][5].
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor
The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius
Donald Robertson
In this book, Donald J. Robertson combines the life of Marcus Aurelius with insights from modern psychology and the enduring wisdom of Stoic philosophy. The book follows Marcus Aurelius' journey from a young noble to his reign as emperor of Rome, highlighting how he used philosophical doctrines and therapeutic practices to build emotional resilience and endure adversity. Robertson guides readers on how to apply these same methods to their own lives, making Stoicism accessible and relevant in a modern context.
The Enchiridion
Epictetus
Tony Darnell
Thomas Wentworth Higginson
The Enchiridion is a concise summary of the basic ideas of Stoic philosophy and provides techniques for transforming these principles into a way of life. It was compiled by Arrian from the teachings of Epictetus and is notable for its practical advice on moral conduct in various life situations. Unlike the Discourses, which present Epictetus' teachings in a more dynamic and situational context, the Enchiridion is a more structured and concise guide to Stoic living[1][5].
Sam Harris speaks with Donald Robertson about Stoicism and the good life. They discuss the relationship between wisdom and virtue, ancient versions of psychotherapy, parallels between Stoicism and Buddhism, practical vs. analytical styles of philosophy, CBT’s origins in Stoicism, the difficulty of self-criticism, techniques for reframing upsetting experiences, the lives of Marcus Aurelius and Socrates, the psychological pitfalls of using social media, and other topics.
Donald Robertson is a cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist and author of eight books on philosophy and psychotherapy, including the bestselling How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, and his latest, How to Think Like Socrates, both from St. Martin's Press. He is one of the founders of the Modern Stoicism nonprofit and the founder and president of the Plato's Academy Centre, based in Athens. He was born in Scotland but now lives in Canada and Greece.
Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.
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