Practical Stoicism

Prof. William Stevens discusses the ancient Stoic concept of Oikeiôsis, emphasizing its relevance in modern life. We explore its universal principles of interconnectedness and ethical living, dispel misconceptions about Stoicism, and relate Oikeiôsis to environmental responsibility. This episode reminds us that Stoicism offers timeless wisdom for navigating complex modern life and contributing positively to the world.

In this episode, the speaker introduces the concept of Oikeiôsis and its significance in Stoic philosophy. They discuss the interconnectedness of humanity and explore the Pyramid of Concern, emphasizing the importance of caring for others as a practical approach to a fulfilled life. The podcast explores the evolution of moral rightness and the development of empathy, using the example of changing perspectives on slavery. It also emphasizes the importance of self-care and improvement without perfectionism.

The podcast discusses the complexity of ego, its necessity in self-identity, the Stoic perspective on ego, and the challenge of balancing self-awareness. It explores the role of ego in perception and decision-making and emphasizes avoiding ego domination. The podcast also covers the balance between believing in our abilities without overestimating them, utilitarian considerations in decision-making, and offers three tips for cultivating a less egotistical perspective.

This podcast explores the concept of ego from a Stoic perspective. It discusses the difference between everyday use and clinical definitions of ego. The Stoic view emphasizes our insignificance in the grand scheme of the universe and aims to temper ego-driven thoughts. The goal of the series is to provide practical advice and insights for maintaining a balanced perspective and applying it in daily life.

Exploring the concept of the Daimon in Stoicism, its interpretations, and its role as our conscience and guiding spirit. Discussing Marcus Aurelius's views on living harmoniously with the gods. Addressing the challenge of understanding Stoicism with limited ancient texts available. Emphasizing the importance of actively engaging with our inner drive directed by the Daimon. Exploring how Stoics find happiness by embracing their inner spark and following their internal drive. Emphasizing the importance of embracing the Daimon, doing the hard things, and living excellently as individuals.

Renowned scholar Prof. Christopher Gill discusses Stoic Compatibilism, Nature, Free Will, and Autonomy in this thought-provoking podcast. He explains the Stoic view of determinism and human rationality. The conversation also addresses misconceptions about Stoicism, highlighting the Stoic interpretation of free will and autonomy. Professor Gill's latest book, 'Learning to Live Naturally,' explores Stoic ethics and its relevance to contemporary challenges like environmentalism.

In this podcast, the speaker explores how to handle life's challenges using stoic wisdom. They discuss the importance of self-restraint, fortitude, and patience in different situations. They also reflect on their own journey of complaint reduction and use a Looney Tunes vignette to illustrate the complexities of the human experience. The podcast emphasizes the significance of learning and self-improvement for future events and highlights the role of challenges in testing one's virtues and character. Lastly, they explain how to reframe difficult situations as opportunities for personal growth and resilience.

Delving into Marcus Aurelius' teachings on maintaining rational control over bodily afflictions. Exploring the difficulty of practicing Stoic teachings in real life, especially when dealing with anger. Reflecting on Seneca's wisdom about the universality of human error and the importance of forgiveness. Recommending a practical approach of giving ourselves space and time to process our feelings before confronting the source of our anger.

In this episode of "Practical Stoicism," I delve into the profound teachings of Enchiridion 9, a text that compellingly explores the concept of freedom of choice. The irony isn't lost on me that we're discussing this topic, especially as we anticipate introducing the third guest in our series soon.Enchiridion 9 teaches us that our physical conditions, like sickness or lameness, do not impede our ability to choose. This wisdom comes from a former slave who experienced physical torment firsthand, urging us to realize that our choices, not our circumstances, define us.I take this opportunity to question the very essence of how we perceive experiences and their impact on us. For instance, if being robbed makes us live in fear of a repeat incident, is it the event itself or our irrational fear that shapes this reaction? I also extend this discussion to the concept of psychological trauma, which I'm starting to see as a series of unchecked, illogical choices that solidify into behaviors. This perspective might be contentious, but it's vital to explore how our choices, rather than experiences, mold us.Our discussion then shifts to the role of experiences in shaping our character. While they offer opportunities to make choices, they don't necessarily constrain us - only our decisions can do that. I relate this to a video game concept where choices impact a character's appearance, symbolizing how actions, more than circumstances, define our moral and ethical makeup.Finally, I examine how circumstances influence our choices, using the example of stealing out of necessity. I argue that even in dire situations, our choices, guided by virtue or vice, are paramount. In Stoicism, the pursuit of virtue is the ultimate goal, transcending even the instinct for survival.In conclusion, this episode underscores that in the realm of Stoic philosophy, it's always our choices, not our experiences or circumstances, that hold the true power.--Get the lifetime ad-free deal : https://stoicismpod.com/lifetime--Support my work directly on Patreon : https://stoicismpod.com/membersSubscribe to my Everyday Stoicism blog : https://everydaystoicism.comJoin the Actual Stoicism discord community : https://stoicismpod.com/discord--Online copy of Meditations (A.S.L Farquharson) : https://link.stoicismpod.com/farquharsonOnline copy of Enchiridion (Elizabeth Carter) : https://classics.mit.edu/Epictetus/epicench.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The podcast discusses Marcus Aurelius' meditation on responding to the wrongdoings of others, emphasizing the importance of focusing on our own character and actions. It explores the relationship between others' actions and character, and highlights the significance of evaluating our own character before intervening. The podcast also explores the concept of roles and attributes in helping others, emphasizing that bravery and effectiveness don't always require physical strength.