Donald Robertson, an author and expert on Stoic philosophy, dives into the complexities of Socrates and his impact on practical philosophy. He explores Socrates' role in making philosophy accessible, alongside the intriguing life of Alcibiades, a figure torn between ambition and societal pressures. The conversation highlights the debate between Socrates and Protagoras on the teachability of virtue, raising questions about ethics and education. Plus, hear participants' transformative experiences from the Daily Stoic New Year Challenge!
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Alcibiades' Fearlessness
Socrates witnessed a boy, Alcibiades, fearlessly stand in front of a moving cart.
This showcased the boy's philotemia, a passion for victory and fame.
insights INSIGHT
Alcibiades' Upbringing
Alcibiades, raised by Pericles and Aspasia, had a privileged upbringing.
His family's influence shaped his path towards leadership.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Socrates Observes Alcibiades
Alcibiades, known for his lisp and good looks, was admired by many.
Socrates observed Alcibiades' interactions, intrigued by his arguments.
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In 'How to Think Like Socrates', Donald J. Robertson masterfully recreates the setting and powerful ideas of ancient Athens, introducing modern readers to the birth of philosophy through the figure of Socrates. The book combines philosophy, history, and psychotherapy, highlighting the practicality of Socratic self-examination and rational reflection for a fulfilling life. It explores Socratic dialogues and their connection to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emphasizing the importance of questioning assumptions to alleviate distress and foster emotional well-being. The book is praised for its engaging narrative and innovative approach, making it highly accessible and recommended for those interested in philosophy and self-improvement[2][4][5].
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor
The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius
Donald Robertson
In this book, Donald J. Robertson combines the life of Marcus Aurelius with insights from modern psychology and the enduring wisdom of Stoic philosophy. The book follows Marcus Aurelius' journey from a young noble to his reign as emperor of Rome, highlighting how he used philosophical doctrines and therapeutic practices to build emotional resilience and endure adversity. Robertson guides readers on how to apply these same methods to their own lives, making Stoicism accessible and relevant in a modern context.
💡 The Daily Stoic New Year, New You Challenge is 3 weeks of ALL-NEW, actionable challenges, presented in an email per day, built around the best, most timeless wisdom in Stoic philosophy, to help you create a better life, and a new you in 2025. Why 3 weeks? Because it takes human beings 21 days to build new habits and skills, to create the muscle memory of making beautiful choices each and every day.
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