#14 - Massimo Pigliucci on Stoicism for Learning, Performing, and Living Well

In this episode of the L&P pod, I speak with Massimo Pigliucci, a philosopher, professor, author, and expert on Stoicism and practical philosophy. Massimo and I discuss why humans should study philosophy and how modern people can apply the ancient philosophy of Stoicism to improve our ability to learn, perform, and live well. The episode provides a toolbox of Stoic principles and practices for us all to navigate an increasingly complex, chaotic, and uncertain world.

KEY TOPICS:

In our conversation, Massimo and I hit on a number of topics relevant to learning and performance, including:

What is philosophy and why it matters to the average person The two main branches of philosophy - theoretical and practical Stoicism as a philosophy of life The three main components of philosophies as ways of life The Origins of Stoicism The three aspects of human nature The four cardinal virtues Key Stoic figures like Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca and what they can teach modern people Common myths and misconceptions about Stoicism and other ancient philosophies The difference between intentions and outcomes Analytical and practical techniques devised by the Stoics to help us be wiser and flourish A whole lot more!

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Massimo is the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York. Massimo holds PhDs in evolutionary biology and philosophy. He conducts research and teaches classes on topics including philosophy, philosophy of science, and Stoicism. Massimo’s authored several articles and books that make ancient philosophy, especially Stoicism, more accessible and applicable to everyday life. He’s part of Modern Stoicism, a movement to help revive Stoicism that has equipped many with tools to handle life’s challenges more effectively. You can learn more about him from Wikipedia.

CONNECT WITH MASSIMO:

Website University Page Substack YouTube Stoa Nova Modern Stoicism

MENTIONS, REFERENCES, AND RESOURCES:

Internal vs. external standards Biological, machine, and human learning Definition of Philosophy Two branches of philosophy - theoretical vs. practical Eudaimonia - flourishing in life Plato Stoicism The three components of philosophies as a way of life - Meta-physics, ethics, practices Living in accordance with nature Zeno of Citium - founder of Stoicism Three aspects of human nature - biology, rationality, sociality The four cardinal virtues - practical wisdom, courage, justice, temperance Marcus Aurelius Stoic training/practice How to Be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius The Discourses of Epictetus Epictetus's Enchiridion Seneca's Letters Stoic definition of "passion" Stoic vs. stoic Epicurean vs. epicurean A Handbook for New Stoics by Massimo Pigliucci and Gregory Lopez Contemplative exercise: Philosophical journaling The myth of learning from experience alone Musonius Rufus Physical exercise: Fasting, abstaining, intentional mild discomfort Dichotomy of control exercise A Guide to the Good Life by Bill Irvine Intentions vs. outcomes Galen Setting internal vs. external goals Aristotle and aristotelianism Epicureanism The Philosophy of CBT by Don Robertson The Role Ethics of Epictetus by Brian Johnson Hic et nunc - "Here and now" tattoo