The Daily Stoic Are You “Well-Read” in This Sense?
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Jan 7, 2026 Dive into the ancient concept of being 'well-read,' where depth trumps breadth. Discover how Marcus Aurelius demonstrated this by quoting from memory. Explore Mortimer Adler’s take on modern reading habits that prioritize quantity over quality. Emphasize cultivating wisdom instead of just trivia, and learn the importance of rereading to internalize valuable insights. Perfectly illustrated, this conversation reveals that true reading enriches life, making knowledge a lasting resource.
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Family Giving Tradition
- Ryan Holiday describes a family tradition of donating via GiveWell and tipping generously while traveling on Christmas Day.
- He explains GiveWell's matched-donation offer and how to claim it using code "The Daily Stoic."
Well-Read Means Deep Memory
- Mortimer Adler and Marcus Aurelius show 'well-read' means deep, memorized understanding, not surface breadth.
- Reading few works deeply implants insights that shape practical judgment across roles and situations.
Mind Over Trivia
- Knowing many facts isn't the goal; cultivating a mind that performs in real situations is the aim.
- Intellectual depth produces practical judgment, not mere trivia or dinner-party knowledge.
