Practical Stoicism
Evergreen Podcasts
Stoicism is the pursuit of Virtue (Aretê), which was defined by the Ancient Greeks as "the knowledge of how to live excellently," Stoicism is a holistic life philosophy meant to guide us towards the attainment of this knowledge through the development of our character. While many other Stoicism podcasts focus on explaining Ancient Stoicism in an academic or historical context, Practical Stoicism strives to port the ancient wisdom of this 2300-plus-year-old Greek Philosophy into contemporary times to provide practical advice for living today, not two millennia ago. Join American philosopher of Stoicism Tanner Campbell, every Monday and Friday, for new episodes.
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 22min
Why Philosophy Is the Only True Guide Through Life (Meditations 2.17)
Explore the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius as he reflects on life's fleeting nature. Discover how keeping a guiding philosophy can help navigate uncertainties and maintain purpose. The importance of focusing on the present moment is emphasized, as past and future should inform rather than overwhelm us. Personal choices and mental frameworks shape our experiences, while philosophy serves as a dependable companion through life's changes. The discussion critiques various belief systems, urging listeners to reflect on their own values.
Dec 2, 2024 • 26min
Five Ways to Damage the Soul (Meditations 2.16)
The discussion highlights five damaging actions to the soul according to Marcus Aurelius. First, separating from Nature creates a false sense of independence. Intentionally harming others contradicts our cooperative duty. Allowing pleasure or pain to drive our choices undermines rationality. Engaging in lies breeds vice, eroding character. Lastly, acting without purpose distracts from our roles in society. Continuous self-reflection and accountability are vital for aligning with Nature and nurturing virtue.
17 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 15min
How Perception Shapes Reality: Stoic Insights on Framing Indifferents (Meditations 2.15)
Explore the profound idea that our perception defines reality, as discussed through Marcus Aurelius' insights. Learn how reframing narratives can transform responses to loss and grief, guiding us to choose thoughts that align with virtue. The dialogue navigates the tension between rationality and emotion, especially in matters of justice. It advocates for empathy over vengeance, emphasizing conscious decision-making. Ultimately, discover the power of perception in strengthening relationships and effectively managing life's challenges.
Nov 18, 2024 • 18min
How Stoicism Frames Life, Death, and the Importance of Living Well (Meditations 2.14)
Explore the profound insights of Marcus Aurelius on the fleeting nature of the present moment. He highlights how time only allows us to act in the now, while the past is gone and the future remains uncertain. Reflect on our shared mortality and the importance of mindful living. The discussion critiques common misinterpretations of Stoicism, emphasizing our responsibilities to society and the community over individualism. Finally, it challenges misconceptions about Stoicism, advocating for a deeper understanding of its focus on virtue and connection.
4 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 21min
Why Ignorance of Nature’s Law Is Life’s Greatest Tragedy (Meditations 2.13)
Dive into the reflections of Marcus Aurelius as he emphasizes the futility of judging others. Discover the concept of the 'Daimon'—our inner virtue that connects us to Nature. The discussion highlights how ignorance of moral understanding can lead to a regrettable life, portraying such ignorance as a profound blindness. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize self-awareness and personal accountability over external judgments, questioning the motivations of those whose approval we seek.
Nov 5, 2024 • 16min
Accepting Mortality: Marcus Aurelius on the Purpose of Death (Meditations 2.12)
Explore the profound ideas of Marcus Aurelius on the transient nature of life and death. He suggests that everything, including our desires and achievements, is fleeting and trivial compared to the pursuit of virtue. Delving into Stoic philosophy, it reframes death as a natural, necessary force in the universe, urging us to embrace it rather than fear. The discussion challenges societal values, prompting a reevaluation of who we seek praise from and encouraging a courageous, virtuous life, even in the face of mortality.
Oct 28, 2024 • 26min
Living Without Fear: Lessons on Death & Purpose (Meditations 2.11)
Discover how embracing mortality can transform your perspective on life. The discussion highlights Stoic views on death, virtue, and the divine, urging us to prioritize meaningful actions. Learn to see challenges as opportunities for growth, and how responding to negativity with positivity aligns us with the Cosmos. Gain insights into the role of personal purpose and therapy in navigating life's trials, all while exploring the deeper meanings of faith and existence in a Stoic framework.
5 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 21min
Habituation and the Practice of Stoic Virtue (Meditations 2.10)
Delve into Marcus Aurelius' insights on the differences between faults driven by anger and those fueled by desire. Discover how Stoics view actions stemming from pleasure as more deliberate and harder to change than those provoked by anger. Explore the nuanced understanding of 'effeminate' in Stoic texts, revealing its true meaning as 'morally weak.' Learn about the significance of habituation in cultivating virtue, emphasizing that consistent practice can transform actions into instinctual behavior, leading to true moral progress.
Oct 15, 2024 • 13min
Embracing The Logic Of The Cosmos (Meditations 2.9)
Discover how Marcus Aurelius connects our actions to the rational nature of the Cosmos. Embrace personal agency and accountability, even in challenging situations like dealing with an unkind boss. Explore the importance of rational choices and the alignment of our actions with virtue. Learn that while external circumstances can influence us, it's our response that truly defines who we are. Dive into the idea that by understanding our role in the self-sustaining universe, we can strive for greater wisdom and beneficence.
Oct 7, 2024 • 10min
Mind the business of your own mind (Meditations 2.8)
Explore the profound insights of Marcus Aurelius on the significance of self-awareness. Discover how focusing too much on others’ opinions drains our energy and hinders personal growth. The discussion emphasizes virtue as the true measure of goodness, contrasting it with the misguided pursuit of material desires. Delve into the complexity of introspection and realize how often we overlook our own thoughts while judging others. Shift your mindset from external validations to cultivating your own character for a fulfilling life.
