The Daily Stoic Thomas Ricks on the Wisdom of the Classics and Balancing Power | This Is What It Means To Be “Well-Read”
Jan 5, 2022
Thomas Ricks, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'First Principles,' dives into the wisdom of the classics and their influence on America's Founding Fathers. He emphasizes how Stoic philosophy shaped the U.S. Constitution and explores the balance between virtue and authority in governance. Ricks discusses the importance of being well-read, the role of cultural literacy, and how historical insights can guide contemporary crises. His engaging perspective connects classical teachings to modern civic responsibilities.
01:14:00
Cato's Familiarity
- Revolutionary War soldiers were familiar with Cato, a Roman figure.
- Cato was popular due to Addison's play and George Washington's emulation of him.
Washington's Emulation of Cato
- George Washington consciously emulated Cato to cultivate virtues like prudence and justice.
- Washington's contemporaries recognized these virtues, associating him with Cato.
Washington's Temper
- George Washington lost his temper in a cabinet meeting, showing he wasn't perfect.
- However, unlike John Adams, he didn't retaliate against critics, demonstrating growth.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
The Depth of Reading and Stoic Connections
01:56 • 6min
Cato's Influence on Revolutionary Leadership
08:21 • 16min
The Evolution of Cultural Literacy and Shared References
23:55 • 5min
Classical Influences on American Leadership
28:37 • 15min
Navigating Governance: Virtue, Authority, and the Constitution
43:23 • 3min
Philosophy and Responsibilities in American Governance
46:32 • 11min
Classics and Contemporary Crises
57:40 • 20min
Exploring Cardinal Virtues and the Daily Stoic Community
01:17:15 • 4min
Epictetus
Epictetus
This book compiles the complete surviving works of Epictetus, a prominent Stoic philosopher.
It includes his Discourses, which were transcribed by his pupil Arrian, the Handbook (Enchiridion), a practical guide to moral self-improvement, and various Fragments.
Epictetus's teachings focus on distinguishing between what is within our control and what is not, accepting nature's course, and living a virtuous life through rigorous self-discipline.
Edited and translated by Robin Waterfield, this collection brings Epictetus's insights to modern readers on how to cope with various life challenges.
Aristotle
Roger Crisp
Aristotle
Thomas Jefferson
John Torrey Morse
This biography, published in 1890, is one of the many works by John Torrey Morse Jr. that focus on the lives of significant American statesmen.
Morse's work on Thomas Jefferson provides a detailed and historical account of Jefferson's life, drawing from his thorough research and historical context.
Alexander Hamilton
Ron Chernow
Ron Chernow's biography of Alexander Hamilton is a landmark work that provides a detailed and vivid account of Hamilton's life.
It recounts his rise from an illegitimate, largely self-taught orphan from the Caribbean to becoming a key figure in American history.
Hamilton served as George Washington’s aide-de-camp, coauthored The Federalist Papers, founded the Bank of New York, led the Federalist Party, and became the first Treasury Secretary of the United States.
Chernow's work challenges traditional views of Hamilton, portraying him as a complex figure driven by passionate patriotism and a stubborn will to build American prosperity and power.
The biography also explores his personal life, including his relationships, feuds, and his famous duel with Aaron Burr.
It is not just a portrait of Hamilton but also a narrative of America’s birth seen through his central role in it.
Meditations
Marcus Aurelius
Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe.
Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature.
Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.
First Principles
What America's Founders Learned from the Greeks and Romans and How That Shaped Our Country
Thomas Ricks
In this book, Thomas E. Ricks explores the educations and classical knowledge of the first four American presidents—George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison.
Ricks delves into how their different exposures to classical literature and philosophy, including works by Aristotle, Epicurus, and Cicero, influenced their ideals and the formation of the United States.
The book follows these leaders from their youths to their adult lives, highlighting how their classical education shaped the country's constitution and government, and offers new insights into these legendary leaders.
Socrates
Socrates
In *The Apology*, Plato recounts the speech Socrates delivered at his trial, where he was charged with impiety and corrupting the youth.
Socrates defends his actions and philosophy, emphasizing his duty to seek truth and wisdom as directed by the oracle at Delphi.
He argues that his mission is to awaken the Athenian state from its ignorance and that he is willing to face death rather than abandon his philosophical pursuits.
The dialogue is a cornerstone of Western philosophy, highlighting Socrates' method of questioning and his commitment to ethical living.
Cicero
Marcus Tullius Cicero
The Daily Stoic
366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living
Ryan Holiday
Stephen Hanselman
This book provides 366 meditations on Stoic wisdom, featuring new translations of passages from Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and other Stoic philosophers.
Each day, readers are presented with a Stoic lesson explained in modern language, along with advice on how to apply these lessons in everyday life.
The book is organized temporally and thematically across the twelve months of the year, making it a daily resource for practicing Stoicism.
Seneca
Seneca
Benjamin Franklin
An American Life
Walter Isaacson
This biography by Walter Isaacson chronicles the life of Benjamin Franklin from his early days as a runaway apprentice to his later years as one of America's most influential Founding Fathers.
The book explores Franklin's contributions to science, politics, and literature, including his work on the Declaration of Independence, his diplomatic efforts in France, and his inventions such as bifocal glasses and the lightning rod.
Isaacson also delves into Franklin's personal life, including his relationships and his philosophical underpinnings that shaped American society.
The narrative highlights how Franklin helped forge the American national identity and his enduring relevance in the twenty-first century.
John Adams
David McCullough
This biography by David McCullough is a comprehensive and engaging account of John Adams' life.
It delves into his role in the American Revolution, his presidency, and his personal life, including his enduring marriage to Abigail Adams.
The book is enriched by over 1,100 surviving letters between John and Abigail Adams, providing deep insights into their private lives and the historical context of their time.
McCullough's narrative spans Adams' early life, his legal career, his diplomatic missions to France, and his presidency, highlighting his integrity, honesty, and contributions to American history.
Lives of the Stoics
The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius
Ryan Holiday
Stephen Hanselman
This book presents the fascinating lives of twenty-six ancient Stoics, from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius, organized in digestible mini-biographies.
It vividly brings to life the stories of key Stoic philosophers, such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Cicero, and demonstrates how their philosophies shaped their actions and legacies.
The authors intertwine historical context with philosophical insights, making the book both educational and entertaining.
It shows how Stoic principles can be applied to modern life, emphasizing virtues like Courage, Justice, Temperance, and Wisdom.
Cato
A Tragedy
Joseph Addison
Written in 1712, 'Cato: A Tragedy' by Joseph Addison explores themes of individual liberty, government tyranny, and personal integrity through the story of Marcus Porcius Cato Uticensis.
The play was highly influential during the American Revolution, symbolizing virtue and patriotism.
It weaves Stoic philosophy throughout its narrative, highlighting Cato's unwavering commitment to his principles.
The Comedies of Terence
Six Plays of Roman Comedy
Publius Terentius Afer (Terence)
Terence's comedies are renowned for their adaptations of Greek New Comedy, focusing on themes of love, family intrigue, and social dynamics.
His plays are characterized by their conversational style and realistic dialogue, differing from the more exuberant works of Plautus.
The comedies have been studied for centuries as models of pure Latin and continue to influence Western drama.
Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes
In 'Leviathan', Thomas Hobbes presents a comprehensive argument for the necessity of a strong, centralized government to prevent civil war and maintain peace.
The book is divided into four parts, exploring human nature, the structure of a commonwealth, the role of Christianity in governance, and the dangers of misinterpreting religious texts.
Aaron Burr
Aaron Burr
Aaron Burr
A Soldier's Duty
A Novel
Thomas Ricks
A Soldier's Duty is a novel by Thomas E. Ricks that explores a fictional scenario of U.S.
military intervention in Afghanistan.
The story revolves around Majors Cindy Sherman and Bud Lewis, who become embroiled in a covert protest by a group of military officers known as the Sons of Liberty.
As tensions rise, they must navigate a complex web of loyalty, duty, and betrayal within the military.
The novel was published four months before the U.S.
actually intervened in Afghanistan.
How to Read a Book
The Classic Guide to Intelligent Reading
Edward Holland
Mortimer J. Adler
Charles Lincoln Van Doren
Originally published in 1940 and revised in 1972, this book is a classic guide to intelligent reading.
It describes the art of reading as the process by which a mind elevates itself through its own operations on the symbols of readable matter.
The authors emphasize active reading, highlighting the importance of keen observation, available memory, range of imagination, and an intellect trained in analysis and reflection.
The book provides practical lessons on how to read books effectively, including inspectional reading, analytical reading, and syntopical reading, to achieve a deeper understanding of the material.
De Officiis
On Duties, On Obligations, or On Moral Responsibilities
Marcus Tullius Cicero
De Officiis is a treatise by Marcus Tullius Cicero, divided into three books, which explores the concepts of honor, utility, and the conflict between virtue and private gain.
It is heavily influenced by Stoic philosophy and provides guidance on how to live a virtuous life.
The work discusses the four cardinal virtues—wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance—and their role in achieving moral excellence.
James Madison
James Madison
James Madison
Fiasco: The American Military Adventure in Iraq
Thomas Ricks
Fiasco: The American Military Adventure in Iraq by Thomas E. Ricks provides a detailed critique of the U.S.
military's involvement in Iraq, focusing on the planning and execution of the war.
The book explores the catastrophic decisions that led to a thriving insurgency and the mismanagement of post-war reconstruction efforts.
Ricks draws on interviews with military personnel and officials to illustrate the failures in leadership and strategy during the conflict.
The Declaration of Independence
A Global History
Terence M. Stanton
The Declaration of Independence: A Global History by David Armitage examines the document's global significance and its influence on other declarations of independence.
The book discusses how the American Declaration inspired similar documents worldwide, highlighting its structure, language, and the broader global context in which it was written.
It also delves into the various interpretations and adaptations of the Declaration across different historical periods and regions.
The United States Constitution
William I. Bowditch
The United States Constitution is the supreme law of the land in the United States.
It outlines the structure of the federal government, defining its powers and limitations.
It establishes three branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—with a system of checks and balances to prevent tyranny.
The Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments, guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to citizens.
The Constitution has been amended several times throughout history to adapt to changing societal needs and interpretations.
Its enduring principles continue to shape American politics and legal discourse.
George Washington
George Washington
The writings of George Washington have been compiled and edited by several historians, including Jared Sparks, Worthington C. Ford, and John Clement Fitzpatrick.
These collections provide valuable insights into Washington's life, military career, and presidency through his personal correspondence and official documents.
Plato
Plato
The Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights
Learned Hand
The Reconstruction Amendments: Essential Documents
Volume 2: The 14th and 15th Amendments
Kurt Lash
This volume provides a comprehensive collection of documents related to the 14th and 15th Amendments, including congressional debates, public speeches, and newspaper articles.
It offers insights into the historical context and legal changes during the Reconstruction era.
Cuz
The Life and Times of Michael A.
Danielle Allen
In 'Cuz: The Life and Times of Michael A.', Danielle Allen shares a deeply personal story about her cousin Michael, who faced severe challenges within the American justice system.
The book is a poignant exploration of family bonds, societal inequalities, and the struggles of navigating the legal system.
Homer
Homer
Homer's works, including the Iliad and the Odyssey, are foundational texts of ancient Greek literature, shaping Western culture and storytelling.
Churchill and Orwell
The Fight for Freedom
Thomas Ricks
This book intertwines the lives of Winston Churchill and George Orwell, two pivotal figures in 20th-century Britain, who championed individual freedom against the backdrop of rising totalitarianism.
Despite their vastly different backgrounds and personalities, both men were united in their defense of liberal democracy and their ability to challenge conventional wisdom.
The book explores how their experiences as war correspondents and their commitment to truth shaped their perspectives on freedom and democracy.
Fabius by Fabius
Fabius
No information available.
Winston Churchill
null
Peter Alter
Articles of Confederation
Benjamin Franklin
The Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution of the United States, outlining a framework for a weak central government and strong state sovereignty.
Although Benjamin Franklin contributed to early drafts, the final document was adopted by the Continental Congress in November 1777 and ratified by all states in March 1781.
Catiline, The Monster of Rome
An Ancient Case of Political Assassination
Francis Galassi
This book provides a detailed analysis of Catiline's life and his role in the Catilinarian conspiracy.
It challenges the traditional portrayal of Catiline as a villain, suggesting he acted out of a desire to reform Rome.
The book explores the political and social context of ancient Rome during Catiline's time.
Cincinnatus
The Secret Plot to Save America
Rusty McClure
David Stern
The story follows Matt Thurman, a golfer framed for murder, and Espy Harper, a DOJ attorney, as they unravel a complex plot involving fixed golf tournaments and a secret society linked to the Continental Army.
Their quest delves into America's past and leads them to a private Bahamian island and the mysterious Coral Castle.
Ryan reads today’s daily meditation and speaks with author and historian Thomas Ricks about his newest book First Principles, the founding fathers familiarity with the ancient Stoics, the wisdom that was embedded into the constitution, how America’s 3 part system was meant to reflect the wisdom of the Classics, and more.
Thomas Ricks is an American journalist and author who has won the Pulitzer Prize for National Reporting multiple times. He is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Fiasco: The American Military Adventure in Iraq and A Soldier's Duty.
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