Afleveringen
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In this episode, I discuss Meditation 7 from Book 2 of Meditations, where Marcus Aurelius advises us to give ourselves moments of quiet to focus on learning something good, while also warning against aimlessness. I explore how modern distractions—whether from media, politics, or content creators—are constantly vying for our attention. Marcus’ advice to focus on "something good" can be interpreted as learning about virtue, which helps quiet the noise of the world. Alternatively, it can mean focusing on something personally meaningful, not driven by fear of missing out, but chosen for its value.
However, Marcus cautions that even when we think we are focusing on something good, we must beware of aimlessness. Those who live without broader goals, Marcus says, waste their lives in trivial pursuits. I analyze how this warning applies to modern content that distorts Stoicism, particularly hyper-masculine and red-pill ideologies that mislead young men by portraying women as distractions. These misguided ideas lead people to chase false solutions to non-existent problems, wasting time and attention.
The meditation emphasizes that distractions are not external forces, but a result of our lack of attention management. A Stoic response is not to eliminate external influences, but to strengthen inner resolve and temperance. Marcus reminds us that a Stoic should not allow external events, like a breakup, to compromise moral character. Instead, the Stoic improves, recognizing that virtue is the only true good, and distractions—whether relationships or the noise of society—are indifferent unless we let them affect us.
"Do things from outside break in to distract you? Give yourself a time of quiet to learn some new good thing and cease to wander out of your course. But, when you have done that, be on your guard against a second kind of wandering. For those who are sick to death in life, with no mark on which they direct every impulse or in general every imagination, are triflers, not in words only but also in their deeds." - Meditations 2.7
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In this episode, I explore Meditation 6 from Book 2 of Meditations, where Marcus Aurelius reflects on how we often fail to honor our own well-being, instead placing it in the hands of others. I dive into the Stoic concept of violence, explaining that true violence, in Stoic terms, is the damage we do to our own moral character through vice, not the physical acts we traditionally associate with violence. Using examples like murder, I explain how Stoicism teaches that no external action can harm another’s virtue, but choosing to act unjustly damages our own character. This episode also touches on the nuanced relationship between Stoicism, religion, and moral decision-making, emphasizing that for Stoics, the measure of uprightness is the quality of one’s character, aligned with Nature and the pursuit of virtue.
"You are doing yourself violence, violence, my soul; and you will have no second occasion to do yourself honour. Brief is the life of each of us, and this of yours is nearly ended, and yet you do not reverence yourself, but commit your well-being to the charge of other men's souls." - Meditations 2.6
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode, I begin by correcting a mistake I made about the word "Prokoptôn," clarifying that it is the singular form, not the plural. We then dive into Meditation 5 of Book 2, which focuses on acting with precision, dignity, love, freedom, and justice in every moment, as if it were your last. I break down the importance of being aligned with nature and explain how Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the need to be in awe of the Cosmos, rather than "god-fearing" as some translations might suggest. I also touch on how we should fulfill our roles and responsibilities according to our nature, using the Stoic principle of Oikeiosis to live a life aligned with the Cosmos.
"Each hour be minded valiantly as becomes a Roman and a man to do what is to your hand with preciseness . . . and unaffected dignity natural love freedom and justice; and to give yourself repose from every other imagination. And so you will if only you do each act as though it were your last freed from every random aim from willful turning away from the directing Reason from pretense self-love and displeasure with what is allotted to you. You see how few things a man need master in order to live a smooth and godfearing life; for the gods themselves will require nothing more of him who keeps these precepts." - Meditations, 2.5
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In this week's meditation, we explore Meditation 2.4 from Book 2 of the Meditations. The conversation centers around the inevitability of death, the urgency of utilizing the present moment, and the Stoic approach to perceiving and appreciating life on Nature’s terms.
Meditation Quoted: "Remember how long you have been putting off these things, and how many times the gods have given you days of grace, and yet you do not use them. Now is it high time to perceive the kind of Universe whereof you are a part and the nature of the governor of the Universe from whom you subsist as an effluence, and that the term of your time is circumscribed, and that unless you use it to attain calm of mind, time will be gone and you will be gone and the opportunity to use it will not be yours again." — Meditations, 2.4
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In this episode, we delve into Meditation 2.3 of Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations. We explore the concepts of Providence and the interconnectedness of the universe as understood by the Stoics. We discuss how everything in the cosmos, including human life, is part of a logical and stable system governed by natural laws. Additionally, we touch upon the Stoic view of change and how it contributes to the stability of the universe. The practical takeaway? Embrace the logical nature of the cosmos, understand that change is not our enemy but rather a necessary aspect of existence, and remember that the answer to a contented life doesn’t lie in external sources like books or gurus but in accepting and playing our part in the grand scheme of things.
Quoted Meditation:
“The work of the gods is full of Providence: the work of Fortune is not divorced from Nature or the spinning and winding of the threads ordained by Providence. All flows from that other world; and there is, besides, necessity and the wellbeing of the whole universe, whereof you are a part. Now to every part of Nature that is good which the nature of the Whole brings, and which preserves that nature; and the whole world is preserved as much by the changes of the compound bodies as by the changes of the elements which compose those bodies. Let this be sufficient for you, these be continually your doctrines. But put away your thirst for books, that so you may not die murmuring, but truly reconciled and grateful from your heart to the gods.” — Meditations, 2.3
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In today’s episode, we explore Meditations 2.2 by Marcus Aurelius, diving into the Stoic understanding of our bodies, the concept of the “god” in Stoicism, and the relationship between our physical body, life-sustaining breath, and rational mind. Marcus identifies these three parts of the human being and challenges us to take control of the only one we can—the governing self, or rational mind.
We also touch on the Stoic concept of Logos, the naturalistic “god” that underpins the universe, and discuss the Stoic perspective on the body as a temporary vessel on loan from the universe. Finally, we delve into the importance of not letting our minds be controlled by selfish impulses or distractions, emphasizing the Stoic practice of paying attention to our thoughts and actions as the path to living a virtuous life.
Meditation Quoted:
“This whatever it is that I am, is flesh and vital spirit and the governing self. Disdain the flesh: blood and bones and network, a twisted skein of nerves, veins, arteries. Consider also what the vital spirit is: a current of air, not even continuously the same, but every hour being expelled and sucked in again. There is then a third part, the governing self. Put away your books, be distracted no longer, they are not your portion. Rather, as if on the point of death, reflect like this: 'you are an old man, suffer this governing part of you no longer to be in bondage, no longer to be a puppet pulled by selfish impulse, no longer to be indignant with what is allotted in the present or to suspect what is allotted in the future.'” (Meditations, 2.2)
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In this first episode of Season 2, we dive into one of my favorite meditations from Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 2.1. I’ll be using the Farquharson translation throughout this season, and today, I’m excited to get started.
Meditation Quoted:
"Say to yourself in the early morning: I shall meet today inquisitive, ungrateful, violent, treacherous, envious, uncharitable men. All these things have come upon them through ignorance of real good and ill. But I, because I have seen that the nature of good is the right, and of ill the wrong, and that the nature of the man himself who does wrong is akin to my own (not of the same blood and seed, but partaking with me in mind, that is in a portion of divinity), I can neither be harmed by any of them, for no man will involve me in wrong, nor can I be angry with my kinsman or hate him; for we have come into the world to work together, like feet, like hands, like eyelids, like the rows of upper and lower teeth. To work against one another therefore is to oppose Nature, and to be vexed with another or to turn away from him is to tend to antagonism." -- (Meditations, 2.1)
In this episode, I explore how Marcus’s reflection captures the essence of Stoicism by reminding us of the importance of viewing others with compassion, even when they act out of ignorance. We are all striving toward Virtue, and acknowledging our shared imperfections can foster a deeper sense of unity and purpose.
I also discuss the Stoic concepts of Virtue, the Unity of Virtue, and the idea that no one does wrong knowingly. These ideas challenge us to reconsider our judgments of others and ourselves, recognizing that everyone is acting from their own perceived understanding of what is right—even if that understanding is flawed.
Finally, I leave you with two questions to ponder and discuss in the comments: How well do you balance your service to the greater good with your own personal well-being? And how do you manage the conflict between your higher ideals and the distractions of daily life?
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In this primer episode for Season 2, I introduce the reboot of the podcast. If you're new here, welcome—I'm excited to have you join this journey. This season is not a reimagining but a refresh, building on the knowledge I've accumulated since I first started this podcast in 2022. While Season One was an exploratory beginning, Season Two aims to dive deeper into the Stoic canon with greater insight and understanding.
In this episode, I explain some key Stoic vocabulary you'll need to know, such as "Prokoptôn," "Virtue," "sage," "impression," and "assent." I also discuss the Stoic concepts of "Good," "Bad," and "indifferents," clarifying common misconceptions about Stoicism and how it guides us in making moral choices.
Additionally, I touch on the Stoic Circles of Concern and introduce my Pyramid of Concern, a tool I developed to help us better understand and prioritize our roles and responsibilities in the context of Stoic ethics.
Finally, I discuss the Dichotomy of Control—or, as I prefer to call it, the Dichotomy of Choice—emphasizing the importance of focusing on what we can choose and letting go of what we cannot.
This season will revisit the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, starting with Book 2, Meditation 1. Together, we'll explore Stoic philosophy in a way that is both deep and accessible, aiming to help you progress on your path toward Virtue.
Thanks for being here, and I'm looking forward to this journey with you. See you next week!
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Welcome to Season 2 of Practical Stoicism! When I started this podcast in January 2022, I knew very little about Stoicism. Fast forward to today, and the podcast now averages around 4 million plays a year. Along the way, I've written over half a million words on Stoicism, co-authored a book, and gained recognition as a Stoic philosopher within the academic community.
With all this growth and learning, I realized that some of the early episodes of this podcast may not be as accurate or insightful as I'd like them to be today. Rather than delete them, I've moved all 233 of those episodes into Season 1, creating a clear division between where I started and where we’re headed now.
So, what can you expect from Season 2?
I've learned that most of you appreciate a mix of ancient wisdom straight from the source, coupled with informed interpretations on how to apply that wisdom in contemporary life. You’re not necessarily strict Stoics, but rather individuals from diverse backgrounds looking for practical insights to incorporate into your own life philosophies.
In Season 2, I'll continue to provide practical Stoic advice while also diving deeper into the ancient theories and how they can be applied today. The podcast will remain a place for practical guidance, while my weekly digital print publication at stoicismpod.com/print will explore more advanced Stoic concepts for those who want to go further.
We’re starting this new season by revisiting the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, beginning with Book 2. This is a reboot, and I’m bringing all the knowledge I’ve gained since the podcast began.
I hope you enjoy this refreshed journey into Stoicism. Thanks for being here.
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In this episode, I delve into the concept of identity from a Stoic perspective, prompted by recent thoughts and experiences. I discuss how we often identify with various subordinate identities, such as our gender, profession, nationality, or personal preferences, and how these can sometimes overshadow our true identity.
I propose that, according to Stoic philosophy, we all share a single Cardinal Identity: Human Citizen of the Cosmos. This identity transcends all subordinate identities and unites us as part of a greater whole. I explore the potential pitfalls of over-identifying with our subordinate identities, which can lead to division and a narrow view of ourselves.
Through this discussion, I aim to shift the focus from these subordinate identities to our shared Cardinal Identity. By recognizing and embracing this Cardinal Identity, we can better fulfill our roles and contribute to the greater good of the cosmopolis.
Join me as I explore how understanding our true identity can help us live more virtuous and fulfilling lives, and how we can balance our various roles and characteristics without losing sight of our shared humanity.
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In this episode, I open up about my own health challenges, sharing that while I am "blood healthy", I am also carrying around some excess weight. This personal context sets the stage for a broader discussion on health and Stoicism.
I emphasize that taking care of our bodies is generally morally appropriate, but our approach to health must be contextually related to our abilities and circumstances. Stoicism teaches that the moral judgment of our approach to health is not linked to outcomes but to the moral reasoning guiding our actions.
I discuss the importance of balancing our roles and ensuring they do not conflict with one another. Using the example of a university student named David, I illustrate how different roles must be fulfilled in harmony, without one undermining another. David’s approach to health is contextually appropriate, balancing his roles as a student, family member, partner, friend, and aspiring Stoic.
I also address the misconceptions promoted by some "Stoic" masculinity influencers, who wrongly associate Stoicism with physical prowess and aggressive masculinity. True Stoicism is about logically understanding reality and making just moral choices, not about meeting arbitrary physical standards.
The key takeaway is that while physical health is an indifferent, our choices regarding health are not. Making contextually appropriate efforts toward health is a reflection of our moral character. I urge listeners to be honest with themselves about their efforts and to avoid using Stoic concepts as excuses for inaction.
Join me as I explore the intersection of health and Stoicism, and how we can make virtuous choices to support our well-being.
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Welcome back, my dear Stoic progressor. In today’s episode, I dive into a topic that may seem unfamiliar to some but is deeply relevant to many – the pressures and anxieties faced by students in the Philippines. Drawing on personal insights and the experiences shared by a listener, I explore the unique challenges that Filipino students encounter, from economic hardships to intense familial expectations.
As someone who has gained a unique perspective on Filipino culture through my marriage and personal experiences, I aim to provide valuable advice not just for Filipino students but for all young people struggling with the anxiety of school, whether it be college, high school, or earlier grades. I discuss the strong sense of familial duty ingrained in Filipino culture and how it often leads to a repression of individuality, creating a complex dynamic between personal ambitions and family obligations.
Throughout the episode, I will share practical Stoic wisdom to help students navigate these pressures. We'll explore the importance of focusing on what we can control – our attitudes, thoughts, and emotions – and how to cultivate a healthy relationship with expectations. By examining scenarios relatable to Filipino students, I offer strategies to balance familial responsibilities with personal growth, emphasizing that the pursuit of Virtue is central to Stoic philosophy.
Whether you’re a student in the Philippines or anywhere else, this episode aims to provide you with tools to manage stress and anxiety, honor your commitments to family, and stay true to your personal goals. Join me as we journey through these challenges together, seeking to live morally and justly while striving for inner peace and contentment.
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In this episode, I take a fresh look at Hierocles' Circles of Concern and how my understanding of them has evolved. Communicating Stoicism to beginners involves striking a balance between simplicity and the depth of the philosophy, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings.
I address a recent discussion on the /Stoic subreddit that highlighted the problem of using complex Stoic terminology without fully understanding it. This can create a false sense of authority and perpetuate incorrect interpretations of Stoicism. I emphasize that practice is more important than book learning and that true Stoicism involves living the philosophy, not just knowing the vocabulary.
I also correct a common misconception about the Circles of Concern. The self is not at the center of the concept but is part of a holistic understanding of Stoicism. I discuss how focusing on the mind as the starting point is crucial, but it does not mean prioritizing oneself over others. Instead, Stoicism teaches that all concerns are interconnected and equally important.
Using the analogy of a snake eating its own tail, I explain how the mind initiates and maintains the process of living according to Nature, but is no more central than the rest of Nature. This continuous effort is essential to achieving Virtue.
Join me as I clarify these concepts and explore the true meaning of Hierocles' Circles of Concern.
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In this episode, I delve into the concept of fate within Stoic philosophy, a topic that often sparks varied opinions. The Stoics believed in a deterministic universe, where a physical causal chain dictates the flow of events. However, this idea can feel restrictive, suggesting that nothing we do could be otherwise.
I explore how we can view this deterministic outlook as both true and untrue, using Chrysippus' analogy of the cylinder and the cone to illustrate how we react to external forces based on our unique 'shapes.' I explain the Stoic distinction between corporeal and incorporeal things, proposing a similar division within the causal chain: a physical chain we cannot control and a metaphysical chain influenced by our rational choices.
Despite the Stoic belief that the mind and its processes are physical, I introduce the concept of 'lekta' or sayables, which are incorporeal yet impactful. I argue that choices, like lekta, are incorporeal outcomes of physical processes, influencing the physical world.
This episode suggests that while fate may seem predetermined, our choices play a crucial role in shaping the future. We are co-authors of our destiny, and recognizing this power is essential for the pursuit of Virtue.
Join me as I navigate this intricate discussion, challenging the idea of a finalized fate and emphasizing our role in co-authoring what happens next.
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In this episode, I explore the complex relationship between Stoicism and the concept of equality. While the title may be partly clickbait, it also highlights a significant discussion on how Stoicism views equality and justice.
I delve into how modern society has become disconnected from coherent moral reasoning, driven largely by raw emotions rather than philosophical principles. This episode is not an excuse to dismiss fairness or justice; rather, it's a call to understand these concepts through the lens of Stoic philosophy.
I discuss the definition of equality as a state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities, and examine how practical implementation can become complicated. Using a hypothetical scenario about medical school admissions, I illustrate how well-intentioned ideas can quickly become complex.
From a Stoic standpoint, I explain that you cannot please everyone and that individuals cannot control whether others are pleased. However, Stoicism also emphasizes the importance of caring about injustices and treating others justly and fairly.
I address the misconception that Stoicism promotes a dismissive attitude towards those who suffer injustices. True Stoicism requires us to pursue Virtue, which involves knowing our role in the Cosmopolis, treating others justly, and showing appropriate concern for those within our circles.
Listeners are challenged to consider how they respond to injustice, both when they witness it and when they experience it themselves. Stoicism does not advocate for virtue signaling or acting viciously in response to injustice. Instead, it calls for reasoned and virtuous choices, regardless of outcomes.
Finally, I clarify that while Stoicism is not concerned with the outcome of equality, it cares deeply about the virtuous choices we make in relation to it. The pursuit of Virtue should guide our actions and concerns, not the pursuit of specific outcomes.
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In this episode, I discuss the relationship between Stoicism and environmental responsibility. I emphasize that caring for the environment is not a political issue but a fundamental aspect of Stoic philosophy.
I explore the Stoic belief in living in harmony with Nature, highlighting that Stoicism requires us to make morally just choices that respect the natural world. I explain that freedom, according to the Stoics, is the discipline to make virtuous choices that align with Nature's order.
I challenge listeners to consider their personal impact on the environment, such as the necessity of driving heavily polluting vehicles and the environmental cost of importing exotic foods out of season. Drawing from Stoic teachings, I urge prioritizing rational and ethical behavior over personal convenience and luxury.
This episode encourages reflection on how to reconcile actions with Stoic values and make thoughtful, virtue-driven decisions regarding environmental issues.
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In this episode, I explore the fundamental differences between Stoicism and Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam), explaining why these systems are inherently incompatible. Religions personify God and base their moral frameworks on divine approval, while Stoicism views God as a natural, impersonal force synonymous with Nature itself.
I discuss how one can adopt certain Stoic practices without fully embracing Stoicism, similar to appreciating elements of another religion without converting to it. However, identifying as both a Stoic and a follower of an Abrahamic religion is as contradictory as claiming to be a Christian Muslim due to the conflicting foundational beliefs. For instance, Christianity's belief in Jesus as the son of God starkly contrasts with Islam's view of Jesus as a prophet.
Identifying as a Stoic involves satisfying specific criteria unique to Stoicism, just as identifying with a religion requires adherence to its distinct beliefs and practices. Religions posit a supernatural, purposeful God whose word is conveyed through scriptures, while Stoicism sees God as the cosmos, emphasizing living in harmony with Nature's rational order.
I address the intellectual rigor behind both religions and Stoicism, acknowledging the profound efforts of their founders to answer life's big questions. Mixing different philosophies or religions often results in new, distinct systems rather than a harmonious blend. Even attempts like Neostoicism, which sought to merge Stoicism with Christianity, have largely failed.
Despite these differences, both systems ask fundamental questions about living a virtuous life. However, the answers and methods proposed by each are often mutually exclusive. While individual Stoic teachings can resonate with religious adherents, the underlying cosmology and logic of Stoicism remain incompatible with theistic frameworks.
I caution religious listeners about the potential challenges of exploring Stoicism deeply, as it may lead to difficult questions about their faith and identity. Embracing such philosophical inquiries, however, is part of the journey toward understanding and personal growth.
In this episode, I explore these complex intersections between Stoicism and religion and provide insights into how different systems approach the quest for a virtuous life.
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Good morning, Prokoptôn. In today's episode, I'm responding to a question from a Spotify listener named Blarka. The question is about how to think of or celebrate a birthday that coincides with the death of a brother or sister.
This is a thoughtful question with a sad context, but it's an important topic. While Stoicism views death as an indifferent in terms of developing Virtue, it acknowledges the emotional impact it has on us. It's essential to remember that Stoics are allowed to have emotions.
First, I discuss the Stoic perspective on death. For Stoics, death doesn't signify the end of everything. Instead, it's part of a continuous cycle of endings and beginnings. The "spark of divine reason" within us doesn't cease to exist when our bodies expire.
Next, I address the specific issue of feeling conflicted when trying to celebrate on a day also marked by loss. It's natural to feel this way, but it's crucial to examine what our actions on these days say about our character. Celebrating and mourning simultaneously doesn't inherently make either action inappropriate. The appropriateness of our behavior depends on the logic and reasoning behind it.
In conclusion, I suggest finding a balanced approach to marking the day of a great loss. This might involve spending time remembering the lost loved one and then allowing yourself to celebrate with friends and family. The key is to ensure that your actions align with reasoned and virtuous thinking.
Thank you for listening, and I hope this discussion provides some intellectual value and practical guidance.
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In today's episode of Practical Stoicism, I delve into a challenging question often posed by newcomers to Stoicism: "If the Stoic Sage is purely aspirational, what motivation do we have to work on our character?" Addressing this, I explore why striving for unattainable ideals, such as perfect health or the perfect dinner, remains essential, despite their inherent impossibility.
I draw parallels between the pursuit of excellence in various fields—be it medicine, fitness, or culinary arts—and the philosophical journey toward becoming a better Stoic. This episode unpacks the importance of perpetual improvement and how it enriches our lives and professions, despite the certainty that perfection is unachievable.
I also challenge the notion that the unattainable nature of sagehood undermines the value of Stoicism. By embracing the continuous pursuit of virtue, we acknowledge that while perfection is a myth, the journey toward it is filled with meaningful growth and self-improvement. Join me as I argue that the quest for a virtuous life, much like life itself, is about valuing the journey, not just the destination.
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In this podcast episode, I delve into the Stoic approach to selecting a career or job, offering insights tailored for both high school students and adults. I stress the significance of assessing existing roles, ethical considerations, and personal motivations when embarking on the job search journey. Throughout the discussion, I provide practical advice on salary negotiation, benefits evaluation, and company research. Above all, I emphasize the Stoic principle of fulfilling one's duties in service to broader concerns, guiding listeners on integrating Stoic principles into their job search process.
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