Philosopher and author John Sellars discusses Stoicism, emphasizing the alignment between honor and utility, the importance of choosing the honorable over the useful, and exploring Stoic philosophy, ethics, and mindfulness. The podcast also touches on perception, reality distortion, and mindfulness teachings by Douglas Harding.
Cicero's 'On Duties' was complex and challenging to decipher due to allegory and unclear narratives.
'Lessons in Stoicism' by John Sellars provides a clearer and more practical introduction to Stoicism.
Stoicism emphasizes the role of mindfulness in controlling emotions and judgments, as seen in Seneca's teachings.
Stoic ethics focus on treating others well and living according to nature, promoting harmonious social interactions.
The practicality of Stoic principles in modern society is debated, highlighting the ongoing relevance and challenges.
Deep dives
Struggling with Reading Cicero's 'On Duties'
The podcast hosts initially intended to discuss Cicero's 'On Duties' but found it challenging. One host had read the Stoics extensively and saw Cicero as Stoic Adjacent. However, Cicero's work was complex with allegory and unclear narratives, making it difficult for the hosts to grasp the main points.
Interpreting Cicero's Writing Style
The hosts delved into Cicero's style, highlighting its complexity and lack of clear organization. They discussed the challenges in following Cicero's arguments and examples, noting the difficulty in distinguishing the main points amidst various stories and allegorical elements.
Exploring Stoicism through a Modern Lens
The conversation shifted to John Sellers' 'Lessons in Stoicism', a modern take on Stoic philosophy. The hosts found this 80-page book to offer a clearer introduction to Stoicism, emphasizing practical applications and modern therapeutic approaches. They appreciated its concise and organized presentation compared to Cicero's work.
Philosophical Reflections on Ethics and Human Nature
The discussion further delved into the ethical implications of Stoicism and its views on human nature. While recognizing the psychological benefits of Stoic practices, the hosts expressed skepticism about the philosophical justifications for ethical principles, particularly in relation to social interactions and moral conduct.
On Mindfulness and Emotional Control
The conversation extended to the role of mindfulness in Stoicism, particularly in controlling emotions and judgments. The hosts explored Seneca's teachings on managing involuntary responses and emotions, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and judgment in moderating reactions to external events.
Debating the Social Ethics of Stoicism
The hosts examined the Stoic perspective on social ethics, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human beings and the concept of living according to nature or rational order. They debated the philosophical basis for Stoic ethical principles, particularly in treating others well and avoiding harm, reflecting on the practical implications within society.
Contemplating Nature and Ethical Behavior
The podcast hosts deliberated on the Stoic interpretation of nature and its influence on ethical behavior. They questioned the moralistic aspects of Stoicism and the basis for ethical principles rooted in human nature. The discussion touched on the implications of Stoic ethics for social interactions and moral conduct.
Connecting Stoic Ethics to Human Relationships
The hosts analyzed the Stoic perspective on human relationships, highlighting the interconnectedness and social nature of human beings. They explored the ethical implications of Stoicism in promoting harmonious interactions and avoiding harm to others, drawing connections to broader philosophical concepts and the practical application of ethical principles.
Reflections on Philosophical Principles in Modern Context
The podcast concluded with reflections on the practicality of Stoic principles in the modern context, emphasizing their psychological benefits and ethical implications. The hosts debated the philosophical justifications for Stoic ethics and the applications of mindfulness in emotional regulation and social interactions, highlighting the ongoing relevance and challenges of ancient philosophical concepts in contemporary society.
In this episode, Jerry and Stably embark on a lively discussion that begins with their initial intention to review Cicero’s On Duties but ultimately pivots to John Sellars’ Lessons in Stoicism: What Ancient Philosophers Teach Us about How to Live. The shift reflects their candid admission that Cicero’s dense philosophical treatise posed challenges in accessibility and relevance for the conversation, prompting a move to the more concise and approachable modern work. This transition sets the tone for a reflective and occasionally humorous exploration of Stoic philosophy and its application in contemporary life.
The hosts highlight key insights from Lessons in Stoicism, emphasizing its practical approach to understanding Stoic principles such as emotional resilience, ethical living, and the dichotomy of control. They appreciate Sellars’ ability to distill complex ideas into actionable guidance, making Stoicism more accessible to a modern audience. Jerry and Stably connect these ideas to broader philosophical discussions, drawing comparisons to classical texts and examining how timeless Stoic concepts resonate today.
Throughout the episode, the hosts discuss notable examples from the book, such as the Stoic emphasis on cultivating inner tranquility amidst external chaos. They reflect on the relevance of these ideas in managing stress and uncertainty, particularly in a world dominated by rapid change and pervasive challenges. Their conversation also touches on the enduring appeal of Stoicism in popular culture, examining why figures like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca continue to inspire readers and thinkers.
While focusing primarily on Lessons in Stoicism, Jerry and Stably weave in references to On Duties, considering Cicero’s more rigorous and formal exploration of duty and moral responsibility. They contrast the classical and modern approaches, noting how Sellars’ work serves as an accessible entry point for those interested in Stoic philosophy without the daunting complexity of Cicero’s writings.
The episode concludes with the hosts’ reflections on the practical value of Stoicism in navigating modern challenges. They underscore the importance of integrating philosophical principles into daily life, advocating for a balanced approach that combines intellectual exploration with actionable insights. This episode offers an engaging and thought-provoking journey through Stoic philosophy, bridging classical and modern perspectives while inviting listeners to consider the relevance of these timeless ideas in their own lives.
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