#497 - Donald Robertson - The Stoicism Secrets Of Marcus Aurelius
Jul 9, 2022
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Donald Robertson, a Stoicism historian and psychotherapist, unpacks the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius. He discusses how many famous quotes may be misattributions and explores the intriguing possibility that Marcus experimented with psychedelics. The conversation dives into the stark contrast between Marcus and Nero, touching on the dangers of seeking public approval. Robertson offers insights on modern mental health challenges through a Stoic lens, revealing how Aurelius's teachings can help with anxiety and depression while embracing life's uncertainties.
Stoicism teaches how to address anger by gaining cognitive distance and adopting a detached perspective.
The Stoic approach to anxiety and depression involves broadening perspectives and gaining objectivity.
Nero's obsession with fame highlights the dangers of seeking constant approval and validation from others according to Stoic philosophy.
Deep dives
The Stoics' Focus: Anger as a Key Emotion
The Stoics believed that anger was one of the most urgent emotions to address. They viewed it as a detrimental emotion that could dominate and control individuals. They emphasized the importance of gaining cognitive distance from anger and adopting a detached perspective. By broadening one's perspective and seeing the world from a higher vantage point, individuals can counteract the narrowing of attention that often occurs with extreme emotions like anger. This technique helps in reducing overthinking and avoiding thought suppression, leading to a healthier and more balanced emotional state.
Broadening Perspectives for Anxiety and Depression
The Stoics recognized the significance of addressing anxiety and depression as well. They advocated for techniques that involve broadening perspectives. By visualizing the world from a higher vantage point, individuals can gain a sense of objectivity and cognitive distance from their distressing thoughts. This shift in perspective helps alleviate overthinking and avoids avoiding thoughts or suppressing them. The Stoic approach encourages individuals to accept upsetting thoughts while viewing them from a different perspective, leading to reduced anxiety and increased problem-solving abilities.
Nero's Reputation as a Narcissistic Emperor
Nero, the Roman emperor, is often depicted as a prime example of a narcissistic ruler. He had a strong desire for approval and adoration from others, leading him to hold extravagant events and seek constant applause. His obsession with his own image and popularity contributed to his reputation as a crazy and tyrannical emperor. His behavior demonstrated a disregard for the well-being of the state and focused more on personal fame and glory.
The Risks of Seeking Approval and Popularity
The Stoics warned against becoming overly preoccupied with seeking approval and validation from others. They believed that this pursuit often led to a loss of perspective and an unstable character. Nero's example shows the dangers of valuing popularity and external validation over the well-being of the state. The Stoics emphasized the importance of focusing on personal virtues and inner tranquility rather than seeking constant approval from others.
Broadening Perspective and Gratitude in Stoicism
One of the main insights from this podcast episode is the significance of broadening our perspective and experiencing gratitude in Stoicism. By contemplating our own mortality and acknowledging the presence and absence of things in our lives, we can dilute the intensity of our emotional experiences and ground ourselves in rationality. This allows us to enjoy transient pleasures without becoming consumed by them and to appreciate the present moment while maintaining an awareness of the larger context of our existence.
Marcus Aurelius and Fame in Stoicism
The discussion also explores Marcus Aurelius' perspective on not getting seduced by fame. Marcus Aurelius was aware of the dangers of fame and the corruption it could bring. He saw the negative effects firsthand with the emperor Hadrian and therefore sought to distance himself from excessive luxury and opulence. Marcus found inspiration in his adopted father Antoninus Pius, who embodied modesty and simplicity as an emperor. Stoicism served as a guiding philosophy for Marcus to emulate Antoninus and avoid the trappings of fame and power.
Donald Robertson is a stoicism historian, a psychotherapist and an author.
Marcus Aurelius has become one of the most quoted and most popular philosophers in history. His meditations have helped millions of people to find solace in hard times and deal with setbacks in life. But which elements of his life and philosophy have been hidden from the public and how many valuable insights are less widely known?
Expect to learn why many of Marcus' quotes might be plagiarising lost texts from other philosophers, whether Donald thinks that Marcus took psychedelics during a sacred ceremony, just how crazy Emperor Nero was, what Marcus learned about not being seduced by fame, how the Stoics would advise people to deal with depression and much more...
