Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied

The podcast discusses the objection to Stoicism and the challenge of living by Stoic principles in extreme situations. They explore whether achieving the ideal Stoic sage is possible and the practicality of Stoicism. They also talk about the importance of interpretation in shaping experiences, attaining sagehood, and understanding one's own limits in practicing Stoicism.

Brittany Polat joins Caleb to discuss Stoic compassion and cultivating deeper connections. Topics include becoming more compassionate, the abundance mindset, friendship, forgiving others and oneself, and the importance of practice and meditation. They explore various Stoic practices, such as perspective-taking exercises, gratitude, and self-accountability. The role of patience and meditation in making long-term improvements is highlighted, along with exercises for shifting perspective and incorporating physical techniques in Stoic practice.

Seneca's letter on ethics debates the usefulness of rules in Stoicism. The hosts discuss arguments for and against rules, the limitations of rules in Stoic philosophy, and the importance of managing impressions. They also explore the role of rules in moral development and the importance of internalizing Stoic philosophy.

Delve into Stoic history and the life of Epictetus. Discover philosophy in ancient Rome and Epictetus's students. Explore the challenges of popularizing Stoicism and the value of authentic understanding. Learn about Nicopolis, dissemination of Stoicism, and the popularity of Epictetus' Handbook.

Dive into why Socrates is revered by Stoics, the link between Stoicism and Socrates' philosophy, and the importance of character and self-knowledge. Explore the Socratic method and the concept of virtue as knowledge. Discover the differences and similarities in philosophy between Socrates and the Stoics.

William O Stephens, Author of 'Encheiridion': A New Translation and Guide to Stoic Ethics, discusses the 6 core themes of Stoicism including self-control, seeing things as they are, living in accordance with nature, role ethics, how virtue depends on knowledge, and how Stoicism is aspirational.

Stoa Conversations recap their 2023 highlights discussing stoic psychology, voluntary suffering, anger management, and the Stoic God. They shoutout key guests like Randolph Nesse, Julia Galef, and Chris Gill. The hosts share insights and plans for upcoming episodes.

Exploring Stoicism and its relevance today, focusing on ethics, reason, and duty. Discussing virtue, character, and alignment with human nature. Exploring modern Stoicism, core tenets, ethical development, and emotional growth within the philosophy.

Register for a free workshop January 3rd: stoameditation.com/workshopAre New Year’s resolutions Stoic?Caleb and Michael talk about the Stoic cases for and against the practice. Then they move to what we can learn from the Stoics about setting resolutions well.(01:41) Against Resolutions(09:44) The Case For Resolutions(18:47) Making New Year’s Resolutions Well(24:14) Getting Concrete(26:55) Realistic and Ambitious(33:14) Stoic Principles(37:25) Michael's Planning(40:09) Caleb Is Too Impulsive(45:50) Summary(49:54) Stoicism Applied***Learn more about our new year’s course: stoameditation.com/courseSubscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/ Get full access to The Stoa Letter at www.stoaletter.com/subscribe

In this conversation, Caleb speaks with Aiste Celkyte about the Stoic theory of beauty. They cover what the Stoics saw as beautiful, how their aesthetics expresses their ethics, and the practical application of this neglected topic.Aiste Celkyte is a professor at the university of Leiden and author of The Stoic Theory of Beauty.(00:57) What Is Beautiful For The Stoics?(06:51) Ancient Sources(09:55) What Makes Stoicism Different(18:18) Beauty And Morality(28:00) Practical Application(30:43) Convential Beautfy(39:24) Moral Responsibility(43:33) The Most Important Insight***Learn more about our new year’s course: stoameditation.com/courseSubscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/ Get full access to The Stoa Letter at www.stoaletter.com/subscribe