The Daily Stoic – There Is Always Both | Marks Of The Good Life

Intro

In this episode of “The Daily Stoic” podcast, the hosts discuss the enduring works of philosophy by Marcus Aurelius and how he remained a good and decent leader despite experiencing disasters and tragedies. They explore the concept of choosing to be splendid rather than vile in a world that can be both beautiful and ugly.

Main Takeaways

Marcus Aurelius’ Enduring Works

• Despite experiencing disasters and tragedies, Marcus Aurelius remained a good and decent leader and produced enduring works of philosophy.

Choosing Splendor Over Vileness

• The world can be vile, but we control whether we contribute to it and whether we choose to contrast it with our own splendor and life.
• The contrast between beauty and ugliness can exist simultaneously, and it’s up to us to choose which one we embody.

Living According to Human Nature

• We never find the art of living in logic, wealth, fame, or indulgence, but rather in doing what human nature demands.

Embodying Virtues for Meaning and Purpose

• The meaning of life is a question that we all struggle with.
• The answer lies in embodying the principles of justice, self-control, courage, freedom, and abstaining from evil.
• Living a life of virtue creates meaning and purpose.
• The good life pivots on a sense of meaning and value as a person.

Additional Information

• Prime members can listen to the Daily Stoic early and ad-free on Amazon Music, or listen early and ad-free with Wondery Plus in Apple Podcasts.

Summary

Marcus Aurelius’ Enduring Works

Despite facing numerous disasters and tragedies, Marcus Aurelius, a renowned philosopher and leader, managed to remain a good and decent leader. His enduring works of philosophy continue to inspire and guide people today. Despite the challenges he faced, he was able to maintain his integrity and contribute positively to society.

Choosing Splendor Over Vileness

In a world that can be both beautiful and vile, we have the power to choose how we contribute to it. We can contrast the ugliness with our own splendor and life. It is up to us to decide which qualities we embody and whether we choose to be a force for good or contribute to the negativity around us. By consciously choosing to be splendid rather than vile, we can make a positive impact on the world.

Living According to Human Nature

True fulfillment and the art of living cannot be found in external factors such as wealth, fame, or indulgence. Instead, it lies in aligning our actions with what human nature demands. By living in accordance with our inherent values and principles, we can find true satisfaction and live a meaningful life.

Embodying Virtues for Meaning and Purpose

The meaning of life is a question that has puzzled humanity for centuries. According to Stoic philosophy, the answer lies in embodying virtues such as justice, self-control, courage, and freedom. By abstaining from evil and striving to live a life of virtue, we can create our own sense of meaning and purpose. This pursuit of virtue allows us to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Additional Information

Prime members can enjoy early and ad-free access to “The Daily Stoic” podcast on Amazon Music. Alternatively, listeners can also access the podcast early and ad-free with a subscription to Wondery Plus on Apple Podcasts.

Conclusion

In a world filled with both beauty and ugliness, we have the power to choose how we contribute to it. By embodying virtues, aligning our actions with human nature, and consciously choosing to be splendid rather than vile, we can lead meaningful and purposeful lives. Let us strive to make a positive impact on the world and find fulfillment through our actions and choices.