Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied
Stoicism FAQ: Who Should You Read First? What Is up to You? (Episode 2)
Dec 28, 2022
Caleb and Michael discuss who to read first in Stoicism, focusing on Marcus Aurelius's 'Meditations'. They explore his writing style, consistency in personal transformation, and extreme choices made by individuals. They also delve into the dichotomy of control and the importance of shaping thoughts and character. Lastly, they explore the concept of virtue and the four cardinal virtues in Stoicism.
41:16
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Quick takeaways
- Starting with Epictetus' handbook provides a strong foundation in stoic principles and better understanding of other stoic philosophers' writings.
- Understanding what is up to us, rather than focusing on control, allows us to navigate life effectively and work towards personal improvement and virtue.
Deep dives
Where to Start with Stoic Reading
When starting to explore stoicism, there are various authors recommended to read, such as Ryan Holliday, SML Pigliucchi, and Donald Robertson. However, it is suggested to begin with Epictetus' handbook. The handbook provides a concise summary of key stoic lessons and is written specifically for students and those who may need clarification. Starting with Epictetus allows for a strong foundation in stoic principles, as well as a better understanding of the writings of other stoic philosophers.
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