Jennifer Baker on Teaching and Living Stoicism (Episode 98)
Nov 24, 2023
auto_awesome
Jennifer Baker, a philosophy professor specializing in Stoicism, discusses teaching and living Stoicism in modern life. They explore topics such as Aristotle, natural vs actual virtue, Stoics in the economy, the Stoic answer to happiness, and why we aren't happy already.
Stoicism emphasizes the cultivation of virtue as the key to a fulfilling life, leading to a deeper sense of harmony and satisfaction.
Stoicism provides practical guidance for navigating personal and professional challenges, promoting equanimity, resilience, integrity, and ethical decision-making.
Deep dives
The appeal of stoicism and virtue ethics
Stoicism and virtue ethics offer a valuable perspective on happiness that is often overlooked in contemporary discussions. While many focus on finding happiness through external accomplishments or experiences, stoicism emphasizes the cultivation of virtue as the key to a fulfilling life. By aligning our actions with the principles of virtue and living in accordance with nature, we can experience a deeper sense of harmony and satisfaction.
The practical application of stoicism in everyday life
Stoicism provides practical guidance for navigating both personal and professional challenges. By embracing the concept of indifference to external circumstances, we can approach life's ups and downs with equanimity and resilience. Stoic principles also emphasize the importance of integrity and ethical decision-making, encouraging us to consider the social and moral implications of our actions. The focus on personal growth and aligning our behavior with our values can lead to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Moving beyond conventional ideas of happiness
The stoic philosophy challenges conventional notions of happiness by highlighting the limitations of external achievements and material possessions. Stoicism reminds us that true happiness cannot be found in the pursuit of fleeting desires or achievements. Instead, it encourages us to shift our focus inward, cultivating virtues such as wisdom, courage, and justice. By freeing ourselves from the endless pursuit of external validation, we can find a more enduring and meaningful sense of contentment.
Living in harmony with nature and embracing reality
Living in accordance with nature is a central tenet of stoicism. It involves accepting and embracing the realities of life, both in terms of our external circumstances and internal experiences. This includes acknowledging that life is impermanent and that adversity is an inevitable part of the human experience. By aligning ourselves with the natural order and accepting things as they are, we can find greater peace, resilience, and a deeper sense of connection with the larger world.
Caleb speaks with Jennifer Baker about teaching Stoicism and its application to modern day life. Along the way they discuss Aristotle, business ethics, the meaning of living in accordance with nature, and natural vs actual virtue.