Stoicism's accessibility has grown due to resources like the Daily Stoic email, making ancient philosophy more widely available.
Stoic virtues exist between corresponding vices, allowing individuals to navigate their own balance.
Ambient parenting, focusing on positive influences and indirect messages, can have a profound impact on a child's upbringing.
Deep dives
Stoicism's Impact on Popularity
The popularity of studying Stoicism may appear to be declining in terms of traditional academic interest, but it has actually gained traction on a global scale. With the accessibility of resources like the Daily Stoic email and the increasing number of individuals engaging with ancient philosophy, the reach and impact of Stoic teachings have expanded significantly.
The Spectrum of Virtue and Vice
Stoicism emphasizes the spectrum of virtues and vices, where each virtue lies between two corresponding vices. For example, courage is the middle ground between recklessness and cowardice. Similarly, discipline exists between being overly strict and lacking control. This understanding allows individuals to navigate their virtues and find the balance that suits them best.
The Timeless Relevance of Stoic Literature
The enduring relevance of Stoic literature is exemplified by works like Seneca's letters. These personal writings provide a glimpse into the human side of Stoicism, demonstrating that the philosophy is not purely abstract or devoid of emotions. Seneca's letters reveal a range of human experiences, offering valuable insights into the challenges of daily life and the pursuit of virtue.
The Power of Ambient Parenting
The podcast discusses the concept of ambient parenting and emphasizes the idea that direct transmission of information may not be as effective as indirect, ambient influences. The speaker shares personal experiences of growing up with religious parents who used daily booklets to impart lessons. They highlight how children often pick up on the ambient stuff, the indirect messages and behaviors that surround them. The podcast suggests that by immersing children in a positive and supportive environment, parents can achieve a greater impact on their upbringing.
The Value of Role Models and Influences
The podcast explores the importance of role models and influences in parenting. The speaker mentions how having positive role models helps in shaping one's parenting style. They highlight the significance of learning from others who have excelled in their roles as parents and writers. The podcast encourages seeking inspiration from a range of sources, including cross-gender examples, to gain diverse perspectives on parenting. It also emphasizes the value of sharing recommendations and influences with others, as it generates a sense of community and fosters connections between individuals.
Ryan speaks with his longtime friend fellow father Austin Kleon during a stop along his book tour for The Daily Dad: 366 Meditations on Parenting, Love, and Raising Great Kids. They discuss the life habits that they maintain in order to help fuel their creative success, why the most effective form of parenting is indirect, what parenting skills they are working on right now, how adopting a daily journaling habit vastly improved their lives, and more.