Are You Willing To Be Taught? | 11 Stoic Books That Will Improve Your Life | The Daily Stoic

Intro

In this episode of “The Daily Stoic” podcast, the host explores the importance of being open to learning and shares 11 Stoic books that can improve one’s life. Drawing from the wisdom of ancient Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, the host highlights the value of reading and learning from the experiences of others. The episode also features recommendations for books that delve into the lives and actions of these philosophers, providing valuable insights into their practical application of Stoic principles.

Main Takeaways

The Importance of Being Open to Learning

• Wisdom often comes to us unsolicited, through advice, consequences, or feedback, and it’s important to be open to it.
• Epic Tidah and Zeno emphasize the importance of being open to learning and avoiding conceit as an impediment to growth and change.
• Marcus Aurelius’ willingness to be taught and tutored, despite his power, serves as an example for us to be open to learning.
• Reading and learning from the experiences of others is crucial for wisdom and a good life, as highlighted by the Stoics.

Stoic Books That Can Improve Your Life

• Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations” is a profound work on justice, self-discipline, wisdom, and courage that has inspired people for centuries.
• The discourses of Epictetus provide insights on how to be good in a difficult world and find freedom, happiness, and peace.
• Seneca’s letters to his friend Lucilius offer incredible insights on life, success, failure, and learning.
• Musonius Rufus advises to disdain hardships, not avoid them, while his student Epictetus emphasizes the value of earning respect through hard work and conquering hardships.
• Victor Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning” highlights our ability to choose our attitude in any circumstance and find meaning and growth from suffering.
• Epictetus’s “Enchiridion” serves as a tool against adversity and fate’s blows, capturing the essence of Stoic philosophy.
• James Bond Stockdale’s “Courage Under Fire” explores Stoic principles in the face of extreme adversity, drawing from Stockdale’s experiences as a prisoner of war.
• Pierre Hadot’s “Philosophy as a Way of Life” emphasizes that ancient philosophy was a series of spiritual exercises and discussions with the self on how to solve the problems of life.
• Donald Robertson’s “How to Think Like a Roman Emperor” offers a unique perspective on Marcus Aurelius and Stoic philosophy, focusing on the actions and lives of the philosophers.

Summary

Being Open to Learning and Wisdom

The Stoics recognized the importance of being open to learning and wisdom. They believed that wisdom often comes to us unsolicited, through advice, consequences, or feedback. Epic Tidah and Zeno emphasized the need to avoid conceit as it hinders growth and change. Marcus Aurelius, despite his power, exemplified the willingness to be taught and tutored. The Stoics also emphasized the value of reading and learning from the experiences of others, as it is crucial for wisdom and leading a good life.

Stoic Books That Can Improve Your Life

The Stoic philosophers left behind a wealth of wisdom in their writings. Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations” is a profound work that explores justice, self-discipline, wisdom, and courage. It has inspired countless individuals over the centuries. Epictetus’s discourses provide insights on how to navigate a difficult world and find freedom, happiness, and peace. Seneca’s letters to his friend Lucilius offer incredible insights on various aspects of life, including success, failure, and learning. Musonius Rufus, known as the Roman Socrates, advises to disdain hardships rather than avoid them, while his student Epictetus emphasizes the value of earning respect through hard work and conquering hardships. Victor Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning” highlights our ability to choose our attitude in any circumstance and find meaning and growth from suffering. Epictetus’s “Enchiridion,” which translates to “a defensive weapon,” serves as a tool against adversity and fate’s blows. James Bond Stockdale’s “Courage Under Fire” explores Stoic principles in one of the most challenging situations imaginable, drawing from Stockdale’s experiences as a prisoner of war. Pierre Hadot’s “Philosophy as a Way of Life” emphasizes that ancient philosophy was not just a set of ideas, but a series of spiritual exercises and discussions with oneself on how to solve the problems of life. Donald Robertson’s “How to Think Like a Roman Emperor” offers a unique perspective on Marcus Aurelius and Stoic philosophy, focusing on the actions and lives of the philosophers rather than just their ideas.

Conclusion

Being open to learning and wisdom is a fundamental aspect of Stoic philosophy. The Stoics believed in the value of reading and learning from the experiences of others to cultivate wisdom and lead a good life. The recommended Stoic books, such as Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations,” Epictetus’s discourses, Seneca’s letters, and James Bond Stockdale’s “Courage Under Fire,” offer valuable insights into Stoic principles and their practical application. By embracing these teachings, individuals can navigate life’s challenges with resilience, find meaning in adversity, and cultivate personal growth.