Description (podcaster-provided):
Donald Robertson, the author of "How to Think Like a Roman Emperor", and a cognitive-behavioral therapist, talks about how to apply Stoicism in the modern world, discussing philosophy, psychology and self-improvement with guests from all walks of life. Available on Google and Apple podcasts.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Stoicism application • Philosophy discussions • Cognitive-behavioral therapy • Self-improvement strategies • Ancient wisdom • Historical figures • Psychological resilience • Sports mindset • Epistemology techniques • Modern issues contextualizationThis podcast, titled "Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life," hosted by Donald Robertson, delves into the practical application of Stoic philosophy in modern life. Robertson, an author and cognitive-behavioral therapist, engages with both the ancient tenets of Stoicism and contemporary interpretations. The content spans a wide array of discussions, often featuring interviews with diverse guests, including academics, authors, coaches, and practitioners from various fields, such as sports, psychology, and history.
Key themes throughout the episodes include the principles of Stoicism, the application of Stoic philosophy to personal development, and the parallels between Stoicism and other philosophical or psychological traditions, such as Buddhism and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Episodes frequently explore how Stoicism can be used to tackle modern challenges, such as dealing with anger, enhancing mental resilience, and improving clarity of thought.
Historical figures like Marcus Aurelius and Socrates are often referenced, emphasizing their relevance to contemporary issues. The podcast also delves into the interaction between Stoicism and broader topics like democracy, political thought, and even medical and societal crises, drawing parallels between ancient plagues and current pandemics.
Listeners are introduced to various philosophical concepts and practical exercises from Stoic teachings, provided both through dialogues with experts and excerpt readings from Robertson’s own works, including his biography of Marcus Aurelius. The podcast offers insights into how Stoic practices can be employed in everyday life, from elite sports and martial arts to overcoming personal vices such as alcoholism.
Overall, this podcast serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in understanding and integrating Stoic philosophy into their life, regardless of whether they are seasoned practitioners or new to the concept. The episodes are rich with educational content, practical advice, and philosophical discussions, making ancient wisdom accessible and applicable to contemporary life challenges.