Michael W. Austin's Blog, page 4

When Going to Church Is Immoral

Some pastors are defying government restrictions and holding worship gatherings. Some governors are allowing this. What are we to make of this, morally speaking? 

Ethics in a Pandemic Age

We must look for ways to show generosity and gratitude to others. If we do, we might get through this pandemic with both our health and humanity intact.

Trump, Iran, and the Ethics of War

The news cycle runs quickly, but we must look at recent events in Iran. The responsibilities that come with the power to command the U.S. military must not be taken lightly.

Stoic Balance

We need to balance our attitudes toward activity and rest. We need a mindset that helps us balance the pace of our lives.

The Stoic Rejection of Fame

The Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius argues that “the only lasting fame is oblivion.” If fame is worthless, what might we seek instead?

Compassionate: It's a Verb

Compassion is an action: we can choose to attend to the suffering of others and do whatever is in our power to alleviate it.

Compassionate

We can choose to attend to the suffering of others, and do whatever is in our power to alleviate it. Compassion is an inner advocate to do just that.

A Stoic Way to Start the Day

In an era of deep divisions, aggression, and malice, the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius is needed. But we need to do more than think about such truths. We must live them.

Bridging the Character Gap

Part 2: There are ways to improve our character, but they require intentional effort.

Bridging the Character Gap

Most of us are not virtuous, but neither are we vicious. We have mixed characters. What can we do to bridge the character gap in our own lives? What can we do to make progress?