In today's episode, I delve into the profound theme of Forgiveness within the framework of Stoicism, a topic that resonates deeply with both my personal experiences and the Stoic principles I strive to embody. I commence with a note of gratitude towards new Patrons – Dan Brann, Jenny Kay, and Jay – whose support is instrumental in dedicating myself fully to this podcast. For those contemplating joining our Patreon, it offers an ad-free listening experience, exclusive articles, discussions...

It is not always Just to be nice, but it is always nice to be Just. This is easier said than done. Can Meditations 5.32 and a bit of heavy Monday morning reflection help us get better? If not, there's a Toblerone at the end of this episode that you might be interested in. -- Become a Patron: https://stoicismpod.com/members Pre-order my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Join the waitlist: https://stoicismpod.com/app Podcast Artwork by Randy Johnson: https://originalrandy.com Learn more about...

I have become a regular listener of The Jordan Harbinger Show. Hope you also enjoy Jordan's selection of fascinating interviews with top tier guests.

Anya Leonard is my friend and one of my heroes. She's built something really incredible over the last 10-years (ClassicalWisdom.com) and I think it is as important a contribution to mankind as was Britannica compiling the great works of Western literature - she has create a "great works" platform and she provides it for free to everyone. This makes her not just a friend and a hero but also a comrade in arms. In today's episode you'll learn about Anya, some of her history, what inspired her to...

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-- Become a Patron: https://stoicismpod.com/members Pre-order my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Podcast Artwork by Randy Johnson: https://originalrandy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tanner Campbell converses with Michael Tremblay, an MMA fighter, writer, and co-creator of Stoa Stoic Meditations app. They delve into several topics, including the role of sport and exercise in addressing rage and anger. Michael Tremblay shares his insights on the practice of martial arts, particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and its philosophical alignment with Stoicism. He emphasizes how martial arts were his first exposure to explicit moral education, teaching not just physical skills but...

In this week's episode of "Practical Stoicism," host Tanner Campbell tackles a diverse set of questions from Patreon supporters, diving deep into the application of Stoicism in modern life. Campbell begins by addressing the nature of Stoicism as a practical philosophy that requires active engagement and contextual understanding, warning against the misuse of Stoic quotes out of context, akin to religious dogmatism. He emphasizes that Stoicism, much like any philosophy, demands practice and...

Donald Robertson joins Tanner Campbell to discuss his new book, "Marcus Aurelius: The Stoic Emperor," published by Yale University Press. The conversation delves into the life and philosophy of Marcus Aurelius, shedding light on both well-documented and lesser-known aspects of his reign. Robertson emphasizes the substantial amount of information available about Marcus Aurelius, more so than for most other ancient philosophers. Despite historical gaps and unreliable sources, a wealth of...

In today's episode, I explored the question of whether women should engage in the study of philosophy, particularly Stoicism, through the lens of Musonius Rufus, a Roman Stoic philosopher. Musonius was asked if daughters should receive the same education as sons, and his response is profoundly relevant today, especially in discussions about gender roles in philosophy. Stoicism, often perceived as a male-dominated philosophy, asserts that Virtue – the knowledge of how to live excellently – is...

In today's episode, I dove into a contemplative discussion on grief, regret, and the nature of our reactions to loss, drawing inspiration from Seneca's "Letters of Consolation to Marcia." Seneca, in his own verbose manner, offered insights on dealing with the loss of a loved one, a topic that often intertwines with regret, especially when that loss is sudden and unexpected. I began by highlighting a significant excerpt from Seneca's letters, where he acknowledges the naturalness of sorrow...

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In today's podcast episode, I explored Meditation 10 from Book 8 of Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations." This particular meditation delves into the nature of repentance, pleasure, and their relationship with virtue. Marcus asserts that repentance is a self-reproof for neglecting something useful, and what is truly good must always be useful. He concludes that sensual pleasure, therefore, is neither good nor useful. Marcus’ meditation might initially seem to advocate for a life devoid of pleasure,...

In today's podcast episode, I tackled some thought-provoking listener questions, providing insights into how to approach life's complexities through a Stoic lens. The first question came from listener "Modern Rust", who asked about prioritizing roles in life. My response emphasized the Stoic principle that no roles should contradict each other. The key lies in understanding the Circles of Concern, starting with the self at the center. I explained that prioritizing ourselves means...

In today's episode, I delve into Book 11 of Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations," focusing on a meditation (Meditations 11.1) that sheds light on the concept of service to ourselves and others. This passage from Marcus Aurelius profoundly illustrates the properties of the rational soul: it has the capacity to see and analyze itself, and to shape its own existence according to its will. What's unique about the rational soul is that it enjoys the fruits of its own actions, unlike plants and animals,...

I had an insightful discussion with Will Johncock about his book, "Beyond the Individual." Will explored the themes of Stoicism, particularly how it emphasizes community and connection rather than just individualism. As a philosopher and academic, he delved into Stoicism's perspectives on individualism and collectivism, highlighting the importance of understanding where we as individuals end and where the rest of the world begins. He discussed his academic journey, noting how he became...

This episode of "Practical Stoicism" delves into the concept of Oikeiôsis, focusing on how to identify the aspects of life one should actively concern themselves with. I emphasize the distinction between caring about something and actively concerning oneself with it. Drawing from Stoic philosophy, the episode unfolds in four steps: #1 - Realize that you're human: Acknowledging that my most proximal concerns must be for ourselves and other humans. The Stoic perspective asserts that our ethical...

In today's episode of Practical Stoicism, I'm thrilled to bring back Professor William Stephens for a deep dive into Oikeiôsis, the theme of this month. We delve into its ancient Stoic roots and its relevance in contemporary life, exploring how it helps us understand what is truly ours to be concerned with. Oikeiôsis, a term that signifies the recognition of what is akin or appropriate to us, extends our concern beyond ourselves to our family, community, humanity, and the entire biosphere....

In today's episode, I'm discussing Oikeiôsis, an essential part of Stoic philosophy and a cornerstone for developing a virtuous character. I'll revisit Hierocles' Circles of Concern, illustrating our interconnectedness with family, community, humanity, and the biosphere, and introduce the Pyramid of Concern, a new perspective emphasizing the foundational role of broader concerns in our well-being. As we explore Oikeiôsis, I'll explain how caring for others as ourselves isn't just noble; it's...

In this episode, I continue the discussion on ego, incorporating insights from my listeners and sharing my own reflections. After welcoming new patron Richard Herring, I note the podcast's expansion onto YouTube and the distinct approach I'm taking there. I dive into various listener perspectives on ego, ranging from its necessity in self-identity and decision-making to its potential dangers when overinflated. These comments highlight the complexity of ego, suggesting it's neither wholly good...

Today begins a three-part series exploring ego. I question whether ego is the 'big bad boogey monster' of Vice, setting the stage for a week-long thematic exploration.  Initially, I discuss a meditation from Marcus Aurelius, which, although not explicitly about ego (since the concept didn't exist in his time), relates to the idea of self-importance. I note the difference between the everyday use of 'ego' and its clinical or scientific definitions. The colloquial understanding often equates...

In this experimental episode, I take a moment to reflect on the evolution of this podcast, "Practical Stoicism," and my journey as its host. Initially focused on providing Stoicism-informed practical advice for better living, the podcast, especially after collaborating with Kai, gradually shifted towards more philosophical and academic discussions. This transition, while intellectually enriching, moved away from the podcast's original mission of offering straightforward, applicable wisdom for...

In this episode of "Practical Stoicism," I delve into the intriguing concept of the Daimon in Stoic philosophy, an aspect I find less central to my practice but immensely significant. The discussion navigates the nuanced parallels between Stoicism and religious or deeply spiritual practices, underscoring the varied approaches to Stoic practice - from everyday practical applications to more devout, monk-like dedication. The core of the episode revolves around understanding the Daimon as our...

In this episode, I engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Professor Christopher Gill of the University of Exeter. As a renowned scholar in Ancient Thought and author of several influential books, including the recent "Learning to Live Naturally," Professor Gill shares his deep insights into Stoicism. Our discussion centers on Stoic Compatibilism, Nature, Free Will, and Autonomy, offering a unique perspective on these classical concepts. Professor Gill elaborates on the Stoic view of...