Practical Stoicism Third Day of Stoic Christmas
Dec 18, 2025
William Stevens, a philosopher and Stoicism scholar known for his work on Marcus Aurelius, delves into the Stoic principles of choice and judgment through the lens of Epictetus. He discusses managing anger and the importance of recognizing ignorance behind offensive behaviors, urging compassion at family gatherings. The conversation touches on Stoic techniques for controlling emotions, emphasizing that true judgment requires understanding motives. With humor, they remind listeners to avoid conflict at holiday celebrations and engage in constructive dialogue.
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Choice Is The Core Of The Self
- Epictetus' prohairesis is the faculty of choice, will, or volition that defines the self.
- It separates what is up to you (judgments, choices) from what is not (body, possessions, others).
Practice Choice At Family Gatherings
- Treat holiday family provocations as tests of your ability to control judgments and choices.
- Focus on governing your responses, not trying to control others' speech or politics.
Midwest Thanksgivings And Euchre
- William Stevens recalls family Thanksgivings full of card games like Euchre and charades.
- He describes learning and enjoying Euchre with cousins, aunt, and uncle growing up in the Midwest.