DeepSummary
The podcast episode begins with Ryan Holiday discussing the ancient Stoic philosophy and how it has experienced a resurgence in modern times. He explains that people are turning to Stoicism as a guide for living a good life and finding meaning, as traditional institutions like religion and education have declined in influence. Holiday then reads a passage from the Stoic philosopher Chrysippus about maintaining honor and fairness in competition.
Holiday expands on this idea, stating that Stoics strive to win through skill and effort alone, without resorting to cheating or depriving others. He argues that while this principled approach may sometimes cost one a victory, it preserves one's self-respect and character. Holiday connects this to the theme of justice explored in his new book 'Right Thing Right Now'.
Later, Holiday shares excerpts from an interview he gave to NPR's 'On Point' program, discussing topics like the reinterpretation of Stoic ideas over time, and addressing criticisms that Stoicism is a male-centric philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of updating Stoic principles to align with modern values while preserving the core teachings.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The ancient Stoic philosophy emphasizes honor, ethical behavior, and self-discipline in competition and life.
- While the Stoics valued victory, they believed one should win through skill and effort alone, not by cheating or taking unfair advantage.
- Maintaining one's principles is more important than any individual victory according to Stoic thought.
- Stoicism has experienced a modern revival as people seek meaning and guides for living outside of traditional institutions.
- Stoic ideas should be updated and reinterpreted for the modern world while preserving core principles.
- Stoicism values justice, courage, temperance and wisdom - not unemotional suppression or toxic masculinity as some critics claim.
- Ryan Holiday urges applying Stoic teachings on ethical competition and maintaining one's self-respect in all areas of life.
- Holiday's new book 'Right Thing Right Now' explores Stoic ideas of justice and honor.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Runners in a race ought to compete and strive to win as hard as they can, he said, but by no means should they trip their competitors or give them a shove.“ by Ryan Holiday
- “We'll win what really matters. We'll win our own self respect, the ability to be proud of ourselves, to look in the mirror.“ by Ryan Holiday
- “Of course, I think they would update. And so I have no problem saying, look, these were men and women who got a lot of things right thousands of years ago, but they did live in a different world built around different assumptions, and we shouldn't be afraid to update and adjust.“ by Ryan Holiday
- “This is just disprovable on its face. And, you know, I try to do my best to point that out when I see it.“ by Ryan Holiday
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Episode Information
The Daily Stoic
Daily Stoic | Wondery
6/13/24
🎙️ Listen to the full episode of NPR On Point here
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