Classical Wisdom Speaks The Life-Changing Lessons of Stoicism
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Jan 3, 2026 
In this insightful conversation, Robert Kaster, Emeritus Professor of Classics at Princeton and author of How to Do the Right Thing, delves into the impactful teachings of Stoic philosopher Seneca. He highlights the importance of magnanimity and empathy in today’s world, offering practical steps to expand our understanding of others. Kaster shares Seneca’s techniques for achieving calmness, like nightly self-reflection, and stresses the need for continual self-improvement. He also discusses the relevance of Stoicism beyond modern misinterpretations, encouraging us to judge ideas independently.
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Seneca's Remarkably Consistent Voice
- Seneca wrote consistently across decades, keeping a stable voice and viewpoint throughout his adult life.
- His long practice of reading and writing shaped a coherent moral outlook we can still study today.
Seneca's Rise, Retirement, And Final Fate
- Seneca served as Nero's tutor and later advisor, then withdrew when Nero's rule soured.
- He spent his retirement writing the Moral Epistles before his forced suicide in 65.
Magnanimity As Expanding Concern
- Magnanimity means widening your frame of reference to include others' interests as well as your own.
- Stoic oikiosis describes expanding concern from self to family, community, and ultimately all humanity.
