Nancy Sherman, a Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown University and author of "Stoic Wisdom: Ancient Lessons for Modern Resilience," dives into the depths of Stoicism. She clarifies common misconceptions about the philosophy, emphasizing emotional awareness over suppression. Sherman shares practical techniques like the 'premeditation of evils' and highlights the importance of vulnerability and community. Discussions on resilience through emotional connection and managing impulsive reactions further reveal how Stoicism can enhance daily life.
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insights INSIGHT
Stoicism Defined
Stoicism is an ancient Greco-Roman philosophy focused on virtue and navigating vulnerability.
It emphasizes finding calm amidst uncertainty and recognizing our interconnectedness.
insights INSIGHT
Misinterpretations of Stoicism
Modern interpretations of Stoicism often misunderstand its core principles.
True Stoicism is not about suppressing emotions but understanding and managing them.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Stoic Meditation
Practice discursive meditation, reflecting on daily experiences.
Journal about events that triggered strong emotions to understand your reactions better.
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In 'Stoic Wisdom', Nancy Sherman presents a compelling, modern Stoicism that teaches how to find calm in times of stress and uncertainty. Drawing on the wisdom of Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and others, Sherman shows how Stoic methods of examining beliefs and perceptions can help correct distortions in what we believe, see, and feel. The book emphasizes the importance of cooperative efforts and deep relationships in building resilience and goodness. It addresses 21st-century concerns such as stress, burnout, and social justice through nine lessons that combine ancient quotes and daily exercises with contemporary ethics and psychology.
You may have heard about stoicism, in the common parlance, as having a stiff upper lip, sucking it up, grinning and bearing it, suppressing your emotions, etcetera. Or you may have heard of Stoicism, the ancient Greco-Roman philosophy, that has become the de rigeur set of life hacks among millennial self-optimizers. In this episode, guest Nancy Sherman argues that Stoicism is way deeper than any of that. She will argue that, in fact, Stoicism is kind of the opposite of all the above. It’s a way to truly know your patterns of thought and emotion. Nancy is a Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown University. She is an expert in ethics, the history of moral philosophy, moral psychology, military ethics, and emotions. Her most recent book is called Stoic Wisdom: Ancient Lessons for Modern Resilience. In this conversation we cover the basics of Stoicism, how and why capital “S” Stoicism is often misinterpreted, a meditation practice called “premeditation of evils” (which is far more practical than it may sound), and another practice designed to make you feel “at home in the world." Please note: This interview includes a brief reference to suicide. Download the Ten Percent Happier app today: https://10percenthappier.app.link/install Full Shownotes: https://www.tenpercent.com/podcast-episode/nancy-sherman-382
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