In this podcast, you’ll learn a few things about Stoicism. What is it? Where did it originally come from? Who were the main Stoic philosophers and how could Stoicism possibly help us in our modern day lives? Welcome to this philosophical episode.
We’ve spoken about philosophy before: A history of Philosophy in 30 minutes: https://inglespodcast.com/532
What is Stoicism?
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that teaches people how to live a good and peaceful life. It started in Greece around 300 BCE, and it later became popular in Rome.
The main idea of Stoicism is this:
We cannot control everything that happens to us, but we can control how we respond.
A Short History
Zeno of Citium started Stoicism in Athens. He gave lessons on a painted porch (Stoa in Greek), which is where the name “Stoicism” comes from.
Later, Stoicism became popular in Rome. Three famous Roman Stoics helped shape the way we understand Stoicism today:
Seneca – A writer and politician. He wrote about how to stay calm and live simply.
Epictetus – A former slave who became a teacher. He said we should focus only on what is under our control.
Marcus Aurelius – A Roman Emperor. His book Meditations is full of personal thoughts about how to live a wise and honest life.
Main Ideas of Stoicism
Focus on what you can control
You cannot control other people, the weather, or the past. But you can control your own actions, words, and thoughts.
Use reason, not emotion
When something bad happens, stop and think clearly. Don’t let your emotions take control.
Live according to nature
This means living as a good human being—using reason, helping others, and being fair.
Practice virtue
The Stoics believed the best life is a virtuous one. This means being honest, brave, fair, and self-controlled.
Accept change and death
Everything in life changes. We should not fear death or loss but live each day well.
How Stoicism Helps Us Today
Stoic ideas are still useful in modern life. They can help us deal with stress, problems, and difficult emotions.
Here’s how:
When you’re anxious, ask yourself: “Is this in my control?”
When you’re angry, take a deep breath and respond calmly.
When life is hard, remind yourself: “This moment will pass.”
When you’re tempted to act badly, choose to do what’s right instead.
Lessons from Stoicism
You don’t need to control everything to be happy.
A simple life is often a better life.
Strength comes from inside you, not from outside things.
Things could always be worse
Wisdom, kindness, and self-control are more important than money or success.
Follow-up reading
“Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius
“The Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman
“Letters from a Stoic” by Seneca
Final Thought
“You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realise this, and you will find strength.”
—Marcus Aurelius
Stoicism teaches us how to be calm, strong, and kind—even in a difficult world. It reminds us that the way we think shapes the way we live.
…and now it’s your turn to practise your English. Do you think there are any lessons you can learn from stoicism? If you took one idea away from this podcast that might be useful to you in the future, what would it be?
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In next week’s episode: Broligarchy in Technology. What is it and how does it affect us?
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