Read the biography of Epictetus
Buy Epictetus’ ‘Discourses and Selected Writings’
Click here to read ‘Stoic Advice from Epictetus on the Art of Living – Part 1′
More stoic lessons from Epictetus to help you learn how to improve and remain happy in life.
Read the biography of Epictetus
I will be posting selected passages from Epictetus’ two books: ‘The Discourses’ and ‘The Handbook’
I begin the series with two such passages of stoicism to help you attain a free and peaceful mind, as well as learning the virtues of contented living. Read more…
To be found in today’s post is a highly recommended educational talk as part of The Wisdom Series from Manly P. Hall.
Please take the time to listen to all 6 parts of the From Knowledge to Wisdom lecture, as it provides a wonderful insight and an enlightening view on wisdom in general, and how us as individuals can attain this wisdom so to improve our lives.
The Battle between Reason and Passion
The Rafael painting (on the left) of Greek philosophers Plato (pointing up towards the sky) and his pupil, Aristotle (palm facing down towards the ground) seemingly depicts them debating what should govern Man’s affairs: either Plato’s heavenly passion of the Gods, or Aristotle’s earthly reason of science.
This battle of wise minds serves as an example that begins this post with an apparent conflict between reason and passion, as I ask the question to myself as to which of the two should be used towards benefiting us personally and society as a whole?
Philosophy, and Stoicism in particular, can be accused of being, at most part, emotionally cold and distant because of it’s aim for us to invoke the use of reason to override all human emotions. The elements of passion and reason have been opposing forces ever since the very beginnings of philosophy.
Seneca’s & Plutarch’s Stoic Philosophy against Anger
I have personally learned a lot about self help anger management by reading ancient philosophy from the great thinkers, who purported to know the answers towards dampening the fires of Man’s failing grace – anger.
So let me begin with the Stoics who fall into the category above. Lucius Annaeus Seneca and Plutarch, who wrote essays about the importance of being aware of the dangers and effects of anger. Both men agreed that if left untreated, anger can do irreparable damage to the mind, spirit and relationships.
The essays in question were Seneca’s On Anger and Plutarch’s On Avoidance of Anger which can be found in the books Seneca: Moral and Political Essays
Are you one of the many millions who are suffering because of the economic crisis?
Is it a struggle to find two pence to rub together so you can buy a good book to read?
Well, with Christmas (Yes, I mentioned the big ‘C’ word) being just around the corner I thought I’d cheer you guys up by starting the festivities early and to share with you some free philosophy eBooks and audio books to warm the cockles of your mind.
If anyone reading this blog is in actual hardship or worries because of their financial situation maybe it’s the time to think like a Stoic and attain the wisdom to live within your means contentedly and with equanimity.
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