Why is stoicism a slave's philosophy?
In which Jon and Matt explore Matt’s extremist reaction to Jon’s interest in Stoicism ("It’s a slave’s philosophy!”). The idea here is that Stoicism can be a philosophy to rise above the little things and provide more time to focus on things that truly matter. On the other hand, is it a philosophy that justifies inaction and ambivalence?
A.I.'s Summary
Prepare for a journey into the realm of philosophy as we explore Stoicism, Buddhism, and Minimalism. Promise yourself a transformative listening experience as we reveal how these age-old philosophies can bring tranquility to your life, influence your relationship with possessions, and even change the way you interact with your loved ones.
Our dialogue takes an intense turn as we debate the entanglement of religion, morality, and law in our society, while exploring how alternate philosophical ideas could shape our legal system. Brace yourself for some tantalizing discussions on the wide-reaching implications of technology and the contrasting lifestyles of productivity-driven individuals and those who favor a slower pace.
However, we do not stop just there. Venture with us into the hypothetical world of a Buddhist-influenced government, scrutinize the Stoic philosophy, and contemplate the profound power of thought. We consider what it would be like if an Emperor Philosopher King propagated Stoicism on a mass scale, and ponder over the dangers of expressing our emotions too freely. As we wrap up, we reflect on the unsettling ability to implant memories leading to self-deception and the empowering concept of gaining control over our emotions. Get ready to have your perspectives challenged and your mind stimulated. This episode is not to be missed!
References
Oh Brother Where Art Thou?
Marcus Aurelius
Maria Konikova, The Biggest Bluff
A.I.'s Summary
Prepare for a journey into the realm of philosophy as we explore Stoicism, Buddhism, and Minimalism. Promise yourself a transformative listening experience as we reveal how these age-old philosophies can bring tranquility to your life, influence your relationship with possessions, and even change the way you interact with your loved ones.
Our dialogue takes an intense turn as we debate the entanglement of religion, morality, and law in our society, while exploring how alternate philosophical ideas could shape our legal system. Brace yourself for some tantalizing discussions on the wide-reaching implications of technology and the contrasting lifestyles of productivity-driven individuals and those who favor a slower pace.
However, we do not stop just there. Venture with us into the hypothetical world of a Buddhist-influenced government, scrutinize the Stoic philosophy, and contemplate the profound power of thought. We consider what it would be like if an Emperor Philosopher King propagated Stoicism on a mass scale, and ponder over the dangers of expressing our emotions too freely. As we wrap up, we reflect on the unsettling ability to implant memories leading to self-deception and the empowering concept of gaining control over our emotions. Get ready to have your perspectives challenged and your mind stimulated. This episode is not to be missed!
References
Oh Brother Where Art Thou?
Marcus Aurelius
Maria Konikova, The Biggest Bluff
Chapters
0:00 Stoicism as a tool of oppression?
4:50 Stoicism as antidote to minor slights. What suffering is called for?
10:27 If the world was just buddhists, what would society look like?
20:20 What if we were more thoughtful about how we react to events?
22:30 Should we seek more balance in how we expose inner feelings?
24:40 Is Stoicism saying don’t try and control stuff you can’t control?
25:53 Commiseration. When does it become co-misery?