Summary
Prof. Pigliucci has a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology from the University of Connecticut and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Tennessee. He currently is the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York. His research interests include the philosophy of biology, the relationship between science and philosophy, the nature of pseudoscience, and the practical philosophy of Stoicism.
He has a new book out called How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life,
that forms the basis for our conversation in the episode. We discuss the stigma’s that exist around Stoicism and why and leads our conversation towards understanding what Stoicism is all about while also investigating some of the fundamental principles that guide Stoics. It helps create a better understanding of why this philosophy can assist us in creating more meaningful lives.Discussion topics
- The stigma’s around stoicism.
- Two key distinctions about the study of Stoicism. Model integrity and Preferred Indifference.
- Stoic mindfulness and how awareness plays a key role in understanding correct ethics.
- How to navigate the ethical debates and decisions in life.
- Avoiding insult and external effects of life outside of one’s control.
Quick round questions
Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?
Daily reflections on the day to come. Daily reflections on what has happened. Using the role model physiology to understand what best to do in efforts to make better decisions.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Study some philosophy (Stoicism).
What is the meaning of success?
Having a life that I am happy about. Getting to the end and being able to look back thinking that it was worth doing.
What advice would you give someone that needing/wanting to make a change?
Read the Meditation
by Marcus AureliusFavourite Food
Rigatoni pasta with my own seafood sauce.
Favourite Leisure Activity
Reading and hiking
Favourite Book
The Edge of Reason: A Rational Skeptic in an Irrational World
by Julian BagginiHow to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life
by Massimo PigliucciFavourite Quote
“Some things are up to us, and some things are not up to us.” Epictetus
Connect with Massimo
Plato’s Footnote – General philosophy and science
How to Be a Stoic – His personal exploration of Stoicism as practical philosophy.
Twitter – @mpigliucci
Further Reading and Resources
TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading
Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y
Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.
The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.
Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain
Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate
The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.
The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.
Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.
Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.
Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.
Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.”
Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.
The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.
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