The Daily Stoic

Thomas Chatterton Williams on Reading, Practical Philosophy, and Embracing Contradiction | Approach Your Troubles Like Doctor

Mar 30, 2022

Thomas Chatterton Williams, a culture critic and author known for his memoirs, shares insights on the power of literature and the practical application of philosophy. He delves into how his father's guidance fostered his love for reading and emphasizes the necessity of embracing contradictions in thought. Williams discusses his impactful contributions to free speech debates and reflects on his identity experiences in France, urging a departure from rigid racial classifications. Ultimately, he champions the importance of nurturing a love for reading in future generations.

01:12:08

Episode guests

Thomas Chatterton Williams

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

2min

Embracing Stoicism: Learning to Navigate Life Like a Doctor

5min

The Power of Literature and Free Speech

15min

Navigating Audience Engagement in the Digital Age

6min

Literary Journeys and Transformative Philosophy

18min

Reflections on Race and Identity Abroad

11min

The Tensions of Social Justice Discourse

18min

Exploring the Daily Stoic Life Community

3min

Ryan reads today’s meditation and talks to author Thomas Chatterton Williams about how his father helped him cultivate his love for reading, why the point of philosophy should be practical application rather than theorizing, the importance of embracing contradicting ideas, and more.

Thomas Chatterton Williams is an American culture critic and is the author of two memoirs: “Self-Portrait in Black and White: Unlearning Race” and “Losing My Cool: How a Father’s Love and 15,000 Books Beat Hip-Hop Culture.” In 2020, Thomas helped write and organize “A Letter on Justice and Open Debate.” This open letter, published in Harper’s Magazine and reprinted in newspapers around the world, defended free speech at a time of growing censorship and was signed by 153 leading public figures. Thomas is also a dedicated father, and much of his work is inspired by the relationship he shares with his father, and the relationship he has with his own children.

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