

TGL006: A Guide to the Good Life with William Irvine
Feb 3, 2020
William Irvine, a professor of philosophy and author of notable works on Stoicism, shares his journey into Stoicism and its vital role in shaping a fulfilling life. He discusses the perils of ‘Enlightened Hedonism’ and presents Stoicism as an antidote to societal pressures. Irvine explores how techniques like negative visualization foster gratitude and how embracing virtues leads to resilience. He contrasts modern life with historical struggles, urging appreciation for current privileges and emphasizing the transformative power of adversity in personal growth.
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Experiment with Stoicism
- Try Stoic techniques over a three-day weekend to see if they work for you.
- Some people are naturally Stoic, while others find it more challenging.
The Problem with Fame and Fortune
- Most people passively adopt common goals like fame and fortune.
- Pursuing fame and fortune is self-defeating due to hedonic adaptation, leading to constant dissatisfaction.
Tranquility as a Goal
- Stoicism, Zen Buddhism, Epicureanism, and Skepticism all aim for tranquility, not just bliss.
- Tranquility is the absence of negative emotions like fear, anxiety, envy, and hatred.