Tanner Campbell's Blog, page 9

5 Steps To Becoming Good

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Stoics Might Not Really Exist, But Prokoptôn Must

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Dealing with Anger and Rage Through Physical Sport (with Michael Tremblay)

Tanner Campbell converses with Michael Tremblay, an MMA fighter, writer, and co-creator of Stoa Stoic Meditations app. They delve into several topics, including the role of sport and exercise in addressing rage and anger.

Michael Tremblay shares his insights on the practice of martial arts, particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and its philosophical alignment with Stoicism. He emphasizes how martial arts were his first exposure to explicit moral education, teaching not just physical skills but also the importance of character development, self-control, and ethical behavior.

Discussing anger, Tremblay highlights the Stoic perspective, as outlined by Seneca, which views anger as a reaction to perceived harm that demands punishment. He distinguishes between two types of anger: the immediate, reactionary kind often experienced in daily frustrations, and a deeper, more persistent anger stemming from significant personal betrayals or grievances.

Tremblay notes that while physical activities like martial arts can effectively mitigate the immediate, reactionary anger, they are less effective in addressing deeper, long-standing feelings of rage or betrayal. He explains how Stoicism helps navigate these emotions by encouraging a present-focused mindset, acknowledging past mistakes while striving to change and improve.

In dealing with regret, Tremblay and Campbell agree that while Stoicism advocates for acceptance and moving forward, it also acknowledges the natural feelings of sadness and shame that come with regret. They underscore the importance of understanding and transforming these feelings constructively, focusing on the present and future actions rather than dwelling on past errors.

The conversation also touches upon Epictetus, his background as a slave, and his philosophical teachings. Tremblay provides insights into Epictetus's approach to teaching young Roman men destined for politics or industry, emphasizing the importance of not just learning philosophy but living it.

In summary, the podcast highlights the value of physical disciplines like martial arts in managing immediate anger and stress, while recognizing the need for philosophical reflection and self-improvement in addressing deeper emotional issues. The discussion reinforces the Stoic principles of focusing on present actions, accepting the past, and continually striving for personal growth and ethical living.

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Stoicism in Practice (February '24)

In this week's episode of "Practical Stoicism," host Tanner Campbell tackles a diverse set of questions from Patreon supporters, diving deep into the application of Stoicism in modern life. Campbell begins by addressing the nature of Stoicism as a practical philosophy that requires active engagement and contextual understanding, warning against the misuse of Stoic quotes out of context, akin to religious dogmatism. He emphasizes that Stoicism, much like any philosophy, demands practice and interpretation rather than rote memorization of texts.

The episode covers four main questions:

1. The distinction between externals and indifferents, particularly our bodies, and how Stoicism views the impact of physical health on mental well-being. Campbell clarifies that while our bodies are considered indifferent, how we choose to care for them is not, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility in maintaining health.

2. Strategies for using Stoic principles to prevent coworkers' actions from negatively affecting one's day. The host suggests that adopting a Stoic mindset involves choosing not to let external behaviors dictate one's emotional state, underscoring the value of practicing Stoicism in interpersonal relationships.

3. The ethical considerations of vegetarian and vegan diets through a Stoic lens. Campbell explores the ancient Stoics' views on extravagance and simplicity in diet, ultimately arguing for a balanced approach that respects both personal health and the treatment of animals.

4. The potential conflict between striving for sagehood and technological or societal progress. The discussion centers on whether the pursuit of Stoic ideals might hinder innovation, with Campbell concluding that Stoicism encourages curiosity and the rational pursuit of ideas that align with one's nature and contribute to the common good.

Campbell's thoughtful exploration of these topics demonstrates Stoicism's relevance in addressing contemporary ethical dilemmas and personal challenges. By emphasizing contextual understanding and the practical application of Stoic principles, the episode invites listeners to engage more deeply with Stoicism as a guide to living well.

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The Biographing of Marcus Aurelius (with Donald Robertson)

Donald Robertson joins Tanner Campbell to discuss his new book, "Marcus Aurelius: The Stoic Emperor," published by Yale University Press. The conversation delves into the life and philosophy of Marcus Aurelius, shedding light on both well-documented and lesser-known aspects of his reign.

Robertson emphasizes the substantial amount of information available about Marcus Aurelius, more so than for most other ancient philosophers. Despite historical gaps and unreliable sources, a wealth of details about his reign, personal writings, and even his appearance at various stages of life is accessible. This rich trove of information provides a detailed picture of his life, philosophy, and the era he lived in.

An interesting topic discussed is Marcus Aurelius's engagement in activities such as leading a dance troupe known as the "College of the Salii" or "The Leaping Priests." This group performed martial dances in honor of Mars, the god of war, serving both a religious function and preparing young men for military service. The discussion portrays Marcus Aurelius as a multifaceted emperor deeply involved in the cultural and religious practices of his time.

The conversation also touches on the historical and personal challenges Marcus Aurelius encountered, including the political intrigue and his complex relationship with Hadrian. Robertson suggests that the environment of suspicion and surveillance under Hadrian likely influenced Marcus Aurelius's philosophical reflections and his cautious approach to governance.

Furthermore, Robertson explores potential controversies and interpretations surrounding Marcus Aurelius's life, particularly his upbringing under Hadrian's influence. The dialogue hints at the darker aspects of Roman society and governance, including exploitation and manipulation at the highest levels of power.

Robertson's insights into Marcus Aurelius extend beyond his philosophical musings, offering a glimpse into his personal experiences and the societal norms of his era. The book promises a comprehensive and nuanced portrayal of one of Stoicism's most revered figures, supported by thorough research and historical accuracy.

This episode anticipates the revelations in "Marcus Aurelius: The Stoic Emperor" and underscores the importance of understanding historical figures within the full context of their lives. Robertson’s work aims to provide a detailed exploration of the Stoic emperor’s life and legacy.

For those interested in Donald Robertson's examination of Marcus Aurelius, "Marcus Aurelius: The Stoic Emperor" is available on Amazon.

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Should Women Study Philosophy?

In today's episode, I explored the question of whether women should engage in the study of philosophy, particularly Stoicism, through the lens of Musonius Rufus, a Roman Stoic philosopher. Musonius was asked if daughters should receive the same education as sons, and his response is profoundly relevant today, especially in discussions about gender roles in philosophy.

Stoicism, often perceived as a male-dominated philosophy, asserts that Virtue – the knowledge of how to live excellently – is attainable by anyone, regardless of gender. This principle is rooted in the belief that both men and women possess the same rational faculty – a brain capable of learning and understanding. The slight physical variations between genders do not impede the ability to acquire knowledge, including Virtue. Just as men and women can learn skills like math or carpentry, both can equally learn and practice Virtue.

Musonius, whose teachings have been passed down over centuries, believed firmly in the equality of men and women in their capability and inclination toward Virtue. According to him, both genders have been endowed with reason by the gods, share the same senses, and have similar body parts. More crucially, both have a natural tendency toward virtue and are equally capable of distinguishing good from bad.

He argued that if both men and women are naturally inclined to virtue and capable of discerning right from wrong, there's no logical reason why the study of philosophy – the pursuit of a good life – should be exclusive to men. If it's fitting for men to be good, it's equally fitting for women.

Musonius went further to describe qualities that are ideal for a woman leading a good life, suggesting that these are best nurtured through the study of philosophy. He contended that a woman versed in philosophy would be a better housekeeper, a prudent manager of household affairs, chaste, self-controlled, not given to excessive grief or uncontrolled emotion, and a just and courageous individual. These teachings of philosophy, he argued, are universal and apply equally to men and women.

Addressing concerns that women engaging in philosophy might become arrogant or neglectful of their duties, Musonius emphasized that philosophy should be a practical guide to life. He compared it to medicine, which is valuable only if it contributes to the health of the body. Similarly, philosophy is meaningful if it leads to the betterment of the soul.

The overarching point Musonius made was that everyone, regardless of gender, should fulfill their duties and roles virtuously. His views, though rooted in the gender norms of his time, transcend these to focus on the universal human duty to care for our circles of concern, control desires, maintain emotional stability, and act courageously.

In conclusion, Musonius Rufus, a thinker ahead of his time, affirmed that the pursuit of Stoic Virtue is not confined by gender. His teachings remind us that the path to sagehood and the practice of Virtue are open to all, encouraging a more inclusive understanding of Stoicism that resonates with contemporary perspectives on gender equality in the pursuit of philosophical knowledge.

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Turning Regret Into Stoic Growth

In today's episode, I dove into a contemplative discussion on grief, regret, and the nature of our reactions to loss, drawing inspiration from Seneca's "Letters of Consolation to Marcia." Seneca, in his own verbose manner, offered insights on dealing with the loss of a loved one, a topic that often intertwines with regret, especially when that loss is sudden and unexpected.

I began by highlighting a significant excerpt from Seneca's letters, where he acknowledges the naturalness of sorrow over losing one's children but stresses the importance of reasonableness in grief. This discussion led me to explore the concept of regret in the context of death and loss, positing that all forms of regret stem from some loss, whether it be a life, an opportunity, or a relationship.

Delving into whether regret is natural, I suggested that while regret may be normative, it might not align with our true nature if we lived as sages, perfectly rational and moral beings. As sages, we wouldn't perceive loss, death, or ended relationships as inherently negative. This raised the question: Should we expect sage-like behavior from ourselves and others, or is it merely an ideal?

I proposed viewing regret as a crossroads, a chance to reconsider our perspectives on life's events. For instance, instead of regretting what we did wrong in a relationship, why not feel gratitude for the joyous moments shared? This shift in perspective can transform regret into an opportunity for growth and self-improvement.

Addressing regret for things we believe negatively impacted others, like feeling responsible for someone's unhappiness or death, I emphasized the importance of taking responsibility and using these feelings as motivation for change. These moments of regret are reminders of our journey towards a better self, a chance to acknowledge our past imperfections and commit to a more mindful and virtuous path forward.

In conclusion, dealing with regret as Stoics, or more accurately as Prokoptôn, involves recognizing it as an opportunity to make better choices. It's about accepting our past mistakes, learning from them, and continuously striving to align our actions with Virtue. Regret, then, becomes not a burden but a catalyst for personal growth and a deeper understanding of our journey towards Stoic ideals.

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Sensual Pleasure

In today's podcast episode, I explored Meditation 10 from Book 8 of Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations." This particular meditation delves into the nature of repentance, pleasure, and their relationship with virtue. Marcus asserts that repentance is a self-reproof for neglecting something useful, and what is truly good must always be useful. He concludes that sensual pleasure, therefore, is neither good nor useful.

Marcus’ meditation might initially seem to advocate for a life devoid of pleasure, echoing a stereotypical stoic rejection of sensual experiences. However, I aimed to provide a more nuanced interpretation. While virtue, the only good in Stoicism, is indeed always useful, it doesn’t necessarily imply that anything not perpetually useful is devoid of value.

Repentance, as discussed by Marcus, is about recognizing the lost opportunity for something beneficial, aligning with Stoic principles. But when he suggests that no sage would repent refusing sensual pleasure, it’s vital to understand the context of utility in Stoicism. Pleasure, especially sensual pleasure, is not inherently good in the Stoic framework, but it's not always harmful either. It’s classified as an ‘indifferent’ – something that neither contributes to nor detracts from virtue.

In real-life scenarios, the utility of pleasure can be highly context-dependent. For instance, sexual pleasure within a relationship might foster intimacy and connection, aligning with one’s duties in the Circles of Concern. In this sense, pleasure can be situationally useful.

I speculated that Marcus’ harsh stance on pleasure might have stemmed from personal struggles or the context of his times. It’s important to remember that “Meditations” was a personal journal, reflecting his thoughts and struggles, not always a prescriptive guide for all.

I emphasized that attempting to completely reject pleasure is unrealistic and unnecessary. Stoicism advises moderation and mindful engagement with life’s pleasures. It’s about how we interact with ‘indifferents’ like pleasure and how these interactions reflect our character. Engaging healthily with pleasure can indeed be a part of a virtuous life.

In conclusion, while Marcus Aurelius provides a stern view on pleasure, a contemporary Stoic perspective recognizes the role of pleasure as an indifferent. It’s not about banishing pleasure but about engaging with it in a way that’s aligned with our character and virtues. This approach reflects a more balanced and realistic application of Stoic principles in modern life.

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Virtue And Choices In Everyday Stoicism

In today's podcast episode, I tackled some thought-provoking listener questions, providing insights into how to approach life's complexities through a Stoic lens. The first question came from listener "Modern Rust", who asked about prioritizing roles in life. My response emphasized the Stoic principle that no roles should contradict each other. The key lies in understanding the Circles of Concern, starting with the self at the center. I explained that prioritizing ourselves means appropriately caring for things beyond ourselves, extending to family, community, and beyond. Each role must align with our responsibility to our own well-being and should not conflict with our roles in other circles.

The discussion ventured into more complex scenarios, like serving in the military or facing moral dilemmas at work. I stressed that actions in one circle must benefit the others. For instance, defending one's country is justified if it aligns with personal, familial, and communal responsibilities. The Stoic approach isn't about blind obedience to external demands but about careful consideration of how our actions impact all aspects of our lives and the broader community.

Listener Arkhê posed the second question, seeking elaboration on the Stoic concept that possessing one virtue inherently means possessing all others. I expressed my perspective as a podcaster, not a formal academic, focusing on making Stoicism practical for everyday life. I discussed the Unity of Virtue, explaining that true bravery, for example, requires wisdom, temperance, and justice. This unity suggests that perfect virtue, or sagehood, is an ideal we strive for, not necessarily a state we achieve. This perspective allows for continuous self-improvement within the Stoic practice.

The final question from BattleBaby touched on the balance between Stoic reserve and assertiveness. I addressed the misconception that Stoicism advocates for passivity or being a doormat. Instead, Stoicism encourages thoughtful, well-reasoned actions that reflect our character and understanding. Whether facing harassment at work or confronting societal issues, Stoicism teaches us to make choices based on a deep understanding of our roles and responsibilities. It's not the outcomes that define our Stoic virtue but the intention and reasoning behind our choices.

Throughout the episode, I emphasized the importance of thoughtful deliberation and the interconnectedness of our roles within the Circles of Concern, encouraging listeners to navigate life's challenges with a Stoic mindset that values rational decision-making and the pursuit of virtue.

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