30+ Best Books on Stoicism

A Guide to the Good Life by William Irvine

A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy is a book written by William Irvine that explores the principles of Stoicism and how they can be applied to modern life.

The book outlines how Stoic philosophy can be used to become more mindful and to find joy in life. It provides practical advice on how to live a meaningful life and offers strategies for dealing with difficult emotions and situations.

Key Takeaways

1. The book explains how Stoic philosophy can be used to live a meaningful life. It outlines the core tenets of Stoicism, including the importance of accepting what you cannot control, the need to be mindful of your thoughts and feelings, and the value of humility.
2. The book provides practical advice on how to become more mindful and to stay focused on the present moment. It also offers strategies for dealing with difficult emotions and situations.
3. The book encourages readers to focus on what is within their control and to practice gratitude and self-discipline. It also advises readers to practice reflection and to cultivate meaningful relationships.

Who Should Read It

A Guide to the Good Life is an excellent book for anyone interested in learning more about Stoic philosophy and how it can be applied to modern life. It is especially helpful for those looking to become more mindful and to find joy in life.

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How to be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci

How to be a Stoic is a book by Massimo Pigliucci that explores the ancient Stoic philosophy and offers practical advice on how to apply it in one’s life.

The book explains the Stoic philosophy of living in the present moment, accepting change, and cultivating virtue.

It provides readers with valuable insights on dealing with adversity, managing emotions, and achieving contentment.

Key Takeaways

1. Live in the present moment: The Stoic practice of living in the present moment is essential to living a meaningful life. This means being mindful of our thoughts and actions and understanding the consequences of our choices.
2. Accept change: Change is an unavoidable part of life, and Stoics believe that we should accept it as part of our journey. This involves recognizing that we cannot control everything and learning to be content with what we have.
3. Cultivate virtue: The Stoics believed that virtue is the ultimate aim of life. This means striving to live in accordance with the four cardinal virtues of wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance.

Who Should Read It

How to be a Stoic is best suited for readers who are looking to discover the Stoic philosophy and learn how to apply it to their own lives. It is a great resource for those who want to learn how to better manage their emotions, handle adversity, and achieve contentment.

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The Greatest Empire by Emily Wilson

A Life of Seneca by Emily Wilson is a comprehensive biography of the Roman philosopher and statesman Lucius Annaeus Seneca. This book provides a detailed account of Seneca’s life, from his rise to power in Rome to his death by suicide.

Through Wilson’s narrative, readers gain a better understanding of Seneca’s moral and philosophical teachings, his political career, and his influence on Roman culture and literature.

Key Takeaways

1. Seneca’s Early Life and Rise to Power: The book begins with a detailed account of Seneca’s life before his rise to power, including his education and his early career as a philosopher and teacher. It then chronicles his rise to power, including his appointment as the tutor of the Emperor Nero and his subsequent relationship with the emperor.
2. Seneca’s Political Career and Moral Teachings: The book then explores Seneca’s political career, focusing on his efforts to reform Roman politics and his relationship with Nero. It also examines his moral and philosophical teachings, highlighting how his Stoic philosophy influenced Roman culture and literature.
3. The End of Seneca’s Life: The book concludes with a discussion of Seneca’s death by suicide and its impact on Roman society. It also examines the legacy of Seneca’s writings and his influence on subsequent generations of Roman thinkers.

Who Should Read It

The Greatest Empire is best suited for readers with an interest in Roman history or philosophy.
It provides an in-depth look at Seneca’s life and legacy, and readers will gain a better understanding of his moral and philosophical teachings and their impact on Roman culture and literature.

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Letters from a Stoic by Seneca

Letters from a Stoic is a collection of letters written by the influential Roman philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca.

Covering a wide variety of topics, the letters provide a wealth of wisdom, offering advice on how to live a meaningful life and cope with the difficulties that come with it.

Key Takeaways

1. Acceptance of Circumstances: Seneca encourages his readers to accept their circumstances and find peace in knowing that everything happens for a purpose, no matter how difficult it might be.
2. Practice Self-Discipline: Seneca urges his readers to practice self-discipline and resist the temptations of luxury and indulgence.
3. Remain Detached: Seneca advises his readers to remain detached from material possessions and external events, and instead focus on the things within their control.
4. Live Virtuously: Seneca encourages his readers to strive for virtue and to avoid behaviors that are unbecoming of a noble person.
5. Find Contentment: Seneca reminds his readers that true contentment comes from within, and that one should not seek validation and satisfaction from external sources.

Who Should Read It

Letters from a Stoic is best suited for readers who are looking for advice on how to live a meaningful life, as it offers a wealth of wisdom on how to cope with the difficulties that come with it.

Seneca’s philosophy of acceptance, self-discipline, detachment and virtue can serve as great life lessons for anyone seeking guidance.

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The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday

The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday is a book about understanding and developing the mental strength necessary to overcome any obstacle or adversity in life.

The book uses the ancient philosophy of Stoicism to provide readers with key takeaways that can be applied to modern life.

Key Takeaways

1. Perceive obstacles as opportunities: Holiday discusses how obstacles can be reframed as opportunities. Instead of viewing obstacles as roadblocks, one can view them as opportunities to develop resilience, creativity, and tenacity.
2. Embrace difficulty: Holiday emphasizes the importance of embracing difficulty and adversity as they are necessary components of growth and progress.
3. Take action: The book encourages readers to take action in their lives to make progress and achieve their goals.
4. Develop mental strength: Holiday outlines the importance of developing mental strength to handle any obstacle. He encourages readers to practice gratitude, mindfulness, and self-reflection to cultivate a resilient mindset.
5. Persevere: The book also emphasizes the importance of perseverence. Holiday encourages readers to stay focused and determined in the face of adversity.

Who Should Read It

The Obstacle is the Way is best suited for readers looking to develop their mental strength and cultivate a more resilient mindset.

The book provides readers with strategies to reframe obstacles, embrace difficulty, and persevere when faced with adversity. Through its use of ancient Stoic philosophy, the book provides readers with practical advice that can be applied to modern life.

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Antifragile by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder is a book by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a prominent philosopher, statistician, and investor.

This book explores the concept of antifragility, a term Taleb created to describe systems, entities, and ideas that benefit from chaos and disorder.

By understanding the concept of antifragility, Taleb argues, we can better protect ourselves from the risks of the modern world and even thrive in the face of uncertainty.

Key Takeaways

1. Antifragility is the concept of benefiting from disorder. Taleb believes antifragility is important for both individuals and societies to function healthily. He argues that humans are naturally antifragile, as we have evolved to deal with and even thrive in chaos.
2. Taleb believes that modern societies are too fragile, relying on complex systems that are vulnerable to disruption. He argues that organizing society in a way that encourages antifragility can protect us from the risks of the modern world.
3. Taleb advocates for the use of a variety of techniques, such as diversification and trial and error, to ensure antifragility and protect against the risks of modern life.

Who Should Read It

Antifragile is an important book for anyone interested in understanding the risks of the modern world and how to protect against them. It is especially suitable for those interested in philosophy, risk management, and investing.

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Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday

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Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday is a book about the pitfalls of allowing ego to control and guide our decisions and actions.

It offers a pathway to success by showing how to overcome our ego’s destructive desires and impulses.

The book is divided into three parts: “Ambition”, “Success” and “Failure”. Holiday provides a comprehensive guide to managing ego and offers practical advice and examples of how to do so.

Key Takeaways

1. Ego is the enemy of success. Our ego can lead us to make decisions that are contrary to our original intentions and lead to failure.
2. The antidote to ego is humility. Humility is key in order to remain focused and true to ourselves.
3. Success requires a balance between ambition and humility. We must be ambitious in order to achieve success, but also humble enough to recognize our mistakes and learn from them.
4. Focus on the process, not the outcome. Focusing too much on the outcome can lead to disappointment and frustration.
5. Remain resilient. Holiday encourages readers to be resilient in the face of failure and to never give up.

Who Should Read It

Ego is the Enemy is a great book for anyone looking for an honest look at how ego can hinder our success. It is especially useful for entrepreneurs, as it provides practical advice and examples on how to manage ego and reach success.

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Stoicism and Emotion by Margaret Graver

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Stoicism and Emotion by Margaret Graver is a book discussing the intersection of Stoic philosophy and emotion.

The book examines the Stoic view of emotion and the affect it had on the ancient world. It looks at the Stoic theories of ethics and how these theories have evolved and changed over time.

Key Takeaways

1. Stoic philosophy can be seen as a way of life that emphasizes emotional control and virtue. It advocates for living a life of moderation and self-control in order to achieve inner peace and a sense of contentment.
2. Stoics believed that emotions should be suppressed and that emotions such as anger and fear were to be avoided. They believed that by controlling their emotions, they could live a better life and reach a higher level of understanding.
3. Margaret Graver explores the impact of Stoicism on the ancient world and how it has evolved and changed over time. She examines the impact Stoicism has had on the development of philosophy and literature, as well as its influence on modern psychological practices.
4. Graver examines how Stoic ethics can be applied to modern life and how it can be used as a tool for self-improvement. She also looks at how Stoic principles can be used to help people deal with difficult emotions.

Who Should Read It

Stoicism and Emotion by Margaret Graver is best suited for readers who are interested in the history of philosophy, as well as those who are looking for a better understanding of Stoic principles and how they can be applied to modern life.

It is also a great resource for those who are looking to gain a better understanding of how to manage and control their emotions.

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The Philosophy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy by Donald Robertson

The Philosophy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy by Donald Robertson is a comprehensive guide to the theoretical, philosophical and practical foundations of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

The book provides a thorough examination of the philosophical and psychological theories behind CBT and explores its many applications in clinical practice. It is an invaluable resource for clinicians, researchers, and students interested in understanding and applying the principles of CBT.

Key Takeaways

1. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is a type of psychotherapy developed by psychologist Aaron Beck in the 1960s. It is based on the idea that the way we think and behave affects how we feel and how we cope with our problems.
2. CBT is rooted in the concept that our thoughts, feelings and behaviours are interconnected and that our beliefs about the world are shaped by our experiences.
3. CBT is based on the idea that we can change our thoughts, feelings and behaviours by changing our beliefs about the world and our understanding of how it works.
4. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the philosophical foundations of CBT, including the philosophical concepts of determinism, free will and the importance of understanding our own beliefs and perceptions.
5. The book also discusses the practical applications of CBT in clinical practice, including how to use cognitive restructuring, behavioural activation and problem-solving strategies to help clients cope with their problems.

Who Should Read It

The Philosophy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy by Donald Robertson is an invaluable resource for clinicians, researchers, and students interested in understanding and applying the principles of CBT. It is an excellent resource for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the philosophical and psychological foundations of CBT and its many applications in clinical practice.

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Courage Under Fire by James Stockdale

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Courage Under Fire by James Stockdale is a memoir of the Vietnam War by a decorated Navy pilot and former POW.

Stockdale’s story gives readers a firsthand account of the horrific events that occurred during the war and his personal struggles with imprisonment.

Stockdale’s courage and resilience make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War and its aftermath.

Key Takeaways

1. The horrors of war: Stockdale’s memoir gives readers a firsthand account of the horrific events that occurred during the Vietnam War, including his own experience of being shot down and taken as a prisoner of war. Stockdale also reflects on the psychological effects of war, including his own emotional turmoil during captivity.
2. The importance of resilience: Stockdale’s story demonstrates the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being subjected to torture and extreme psychological distress, Stockdale refused to break and remained resilient until his eventual release.
3. The power of courage: Stockdale’s story is a testament to the power of courage, both during the war and in his post-war life. Stockdale refused to give in to fear and refused to be broken by his captors, and his courage ultimately enabled him to survive the war and move on with his life.

Who Should Read It

Courage Under Fire by James Stockdale is a must-read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War and its aftermath. The book is particularly well-suited for readers looking for a firsthand account of the horrors of war and the power of resilience and courage in the face of adversity.

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The Little Book of Stoicism by Jonas Salzgeber

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The Little Book of Stoicism by Jonas Salzgeber is a practical guide to living a life of Stoic wisdom, which is the ancient Greek philosophy of living a life of virtue and purpose.

It covers the key principles of Stoicism and provides practical advice for how to live in line with Stoic values.

Key Takeaways

1. Stoicism is about living a life of virtue and purpose: Stoicism is a philosophy that emphasizes living a good life based on virtue and purpose. The Stoic way of life is to focus on our own choices and actions, rather than those of others, and to take responsibility for our own lives.
2. Stoicism is based on four core principles: Stoicism is based on four core principles: virtue, wisdom, courage, and temperance. The Stoic way of life is to strive to embody these principles in one’s life, and to strive for balance and harmony between them.
3. Practical advice for how to live a Stoic life: The book provides practical advice for how to live in line with Stoic principles. This includes advice on how to cultivate a Stoic mindset and how to practice Stoic meditation and mindfulness.

Who Should Read It

The Little Book of Stoicism is best suited for readers who are interested in learning more about Stoic philosophy and how to live a life of virtue and purpose. It is an ideal for anyone looking to explore and understand the principles of Stoicism.

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Stoic Warriors by Nancy Sherman

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Stoic Warriors is a book written by Nancy Sherman, a renowned moral philosopher, which focuses on the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and its relevance in the modern world.

Sherman examines the philosophy of Stoicism and its importance in helping to cope with the challenges of life.

Key Takeaways

1. Stoicism is an ancient philosophy developed by the Greeks and Romans that focuses on cultivating resilience and mental fortitude in order to cope with life’s difficulties. It teaches that one should not allow their emotions to dictate their actions and instead strive to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity. It also emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive attitude and focusing on what is within one’s control, rather than on external sources of difficulty.
2. Stoicism is not a religion, but rather a set of practical tools and strategies that can be applied to any situation. It teaches that one should strive to live in harmony with nature and the universe, and that one should strive to live with courage and integrity. It also teaches that one should strive to be mindful of their actions and strive to do what is right, even if it is difficult.
3. Stoic Warriors apply the principles of Stoicism to their lives and strive to live in harmony with nature and the universe. They strive to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity, and practice mindfulness and integrity in their daily lives.

Who Should Read It

Stoic Warriors is best suited for readers who are interested in learning more about the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and how it can be applied to their lives.

It is also suitable for readers who are looking for practical tools and strategies to help them cope with the difficulties of life.

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Rome’s Last Citizen by Rob Goodman

Rome’s Last Citizen by Rob Goodman is a historical biography that follows the life of the Stoic Philosopher, Marcus Aurelius. It follows his upbringing, his rise to power, and his rule over the Roman Empire.

This book focuses on Marcus’ Stoic philosophy and how it shaped his rule, how it led to him becoming Rome’s last great emperor, and how it helped him cope with the hardships of his life.

Key Takeaways

1. Marcus Aurelius was a Stoic philosopher and the last great emperor of the Roman Empire. He was born into a wealthy family and had a privileged upbringing, which provided him with a strong foundation for his beliefs and leadership.
2. Marcus was a strong believer in Stoicism, which taught him to be indifferent to external events and focus on his own moral excellence. This philosophy shaped his rule and helped him cope with the hardships of life.
3. Marcus was a successful ruler, but his reign was marred by war, plague, and famine. His Stoic philosophy enabled him to cope with these difficult times and to remain focused on the greater good.
4. Marcus’ legacy has endured throughout history, and his stoic philosophy has become a cornerstone of Western thought.

Who Should Read It

This book is best suited for readers interested in history, philosophy, and Stoicism. It is also a great read for those interested in ancient Rome and the life of its last great emperor, Marcus Aurelius.

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Everything Has Two Handles by Ronald Pies

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Everything Has Two Handles by Ronald Pies is a book about how to create and maintain successful relationships with others.

It argues that every relationship has two handles – one to be held by the person we are in relationship with and one by ourselves.

The book provides readers with a set of guidelines to help them navigate the complexities of relationships.

Key Takeaways

1. The importance of self-awareness: The book emphasizes the importance of self-awareness as the foundation of successful relationships. It argues that we must understand our own emotional states and reactions before we can understand and respond to the emotional states and reactions of others.
2. The importance of communication: The book highlights the importance of communication in relationships, urging readers to speak openly and honestly about their feelings and needs. It advises readers to practice active listening, be open to feedback, and to take responsibility for their own feelings and reactions.
3. The importance of respect: The book stresses the importance of respecting the feelings and needs of those we are in relationship with. It encourages readers to accept that they cannot control the feelings and reactions of others, and to practice empathy and compassion.

Who Should Read Its

Everything Has Two Handles is an ideal read for anyone seeking to better understand the intricacies of relationships and to develop and maintain successful relationships with others. It is an especially useful resource for those in the helping professions, such as counselors, therapists, and social workers.

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Letters on Ethics: To Lucilius by Seneca

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Letters on Ethics: To Lucilius is a collection of letters written by the Roman Stoic philosopher, Seneca, to his friend and confidante, Lucilius. The letters offer advice on how to live a moral life in a chaotic and unpredictable world.

The correspondence illustrates the importance of Stoic philosophy in Seneca’s life and how he applied it to his daily life.

Key Takeaways

1. Stoic philosophy: Seneca emphasizes the importance of Stoic philosophy in practicing virtue and living a moral life. He contends that by focusing on one’s own moral character and striving for inner peace, a person can overcome the obstacles of life and find contentment.
2. Self-improvement: Seneca encourages Lucilius to strive for self-improvement and to rid himself of negative emotions such as fear, anger and envy. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a strong moral character and controlling one’s emotions in order to live a life of contentment.
3. he power of resilience: Seneca emphasizes the importance of resilience and the power of the human spirit to overcome obstacles. He encourages Lucilius to remain steadfast in the face of adversity and to never give up.

Who Should Read It

Letters on Ethics: To Lucilius is ideal for readers who are interested in Stoic philosophy and its practical applications in daily life. It is an invaluable source of guidance and wisdom on how to live a moral life in a chaotic and unpredictable world.

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Philosophy as a Way of Life by Pierre Hadot

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Philosophy as a Way of Life is a book written by Pierre Hadot, a French philosopher, that examines the importance of philosophy in our lives and how it can serve as a way of life.

In this book, Hadot discusses how to make philosophy part of our lives, how to use it to live more fully, and how it can help us find our true selves.

He also explores the importance of self-transformation and the ancient philosophical practices of living in the present moment and living with awareness.

Key Takeaways

1. Philosophy can be a way of life: Hadot argues that philosophy can be more than just an academic discipline – it can be a way of life. He explains that philosophy can help us to live more fully and find our true selves.
2. The importance of self-transformation: Hadot emphasizes the importance of self-transformation, which is key to finding our true selves and living a meaningful life. He explains that self-transformation requires us to be aware of our thoughts, feelings, and actions, and to be mindful of our relationships with others.
3. Ancient philosophical practices: Hadot discusses the ancient philosophical practices of living in the present moment and living with awareness. He explains that these practices can help us to become more conscious and aware of our lives and to find our true selves.

Who Should Read It

Philosophy as a Way of Life is best suited for readers who are interested in learning more about philosophy and how it can be used to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Hadot’s insights into self-transformation and ancient philosophical practices provide a unique perspective on philosophy and its relevance to our lives.

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Stoicism and the Art of Happiness by Donald Robertson

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Stoicism and the Art of Happiness by Donald Robertson is a book about how to apply the ancient wisdom of Stoic philosophy to modern life.

It provides practical advice for how to live a life of virtue and how to cultivate a positive attitude in the face of life’s challenges.

The book explores the history and principles of Stoicism, as well as how to apply them to one’s life.

Key Takeaways

1. Stoicism is an ancient philosophy founded by the Greek philosopher Zeno of Citium in the 3rd century BC. Its core principles are virtue, resilience, and self-improvement.
2. The Stoics believed that true happiness comes from living a life of virtue, which means living in accordance with nature and with wisdom and justice.
3. Practicing Stoicism involves cultivating an attitude of equanimity which allows us to be resilient in the face of life’s challenges.
4. The Stoic practice of mindfulness is a key tool for attaining a state of peace and happiness.
5. Stoicism is a practical philosophy that can be applied to everyday life through practices such as journaling and meditation.

Who Should Read It

Stoicism and the Art of Happiness by Donald Robertson is an excellent book for anyone interested in learning more about the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and how to apply it to modern life. It is also a great read for those who are looking for practical advice on how to cultivate a positive attitude and find true happiness.

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Marcus Aurelius: A Life by Frank McLynn

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This is a comprehensive biography of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, one of the most revered and well-known figures of the ancient world.

The book follows the life of Marcus Aurelius from his birth in Rome to his death in Vienna, and tells the story of his life as a soldier, philosopher, and statesman.

Key Takeaways

1. Marcus Aurelius was born in Rome in 121 AD, and his family was part of the Roman aristocracy. He was highly educated, and his family had close ties to the emperor Antoninus Pius, who adopted Marcus as his son and heir.
2. He was an accomplished soldier, leading the Roman army in various campaigns against the Parthians and other enemies of Rome. He was praised for his bravery and skill in battle, and was eventually made emperor of Rome in 161 AD.
3. He was a philosopher and a Stoic, writing his famous Meditations as a form of self-reflection and contemplation. His writings were influential in the development of Stoic thought, and his meditation on the impermanence of life is still relevant today.
4. He was a statesman, working to improve the lives of his people and ensuring the stability of the Roman Empire. He was a successful and respected ruler, and his reign is remembered as a golden age of Roman history.

Who Should Read It

This is a great book for anyone interested in the history of the Roman Empire, philosophy, or the life of one of the most influential figures in history. It is also a great resource for anyone looking to explore the ideas of Stoicism and the teachings of Marcus Aurelius.

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The Discourses of Epictetus by Epictetus

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The Discourses of Epictetus is a collection of writings by the Stoic philosopher Epictetus. This book is considered to be one of the most important works of Stoic philosophy and has had a profound influence on Western thought.

It is a compendium of Epictetus’ teachings on Stoic ethics, which emphasize the importance of living in accordance with nature and of accepting what is outside of one’s control.

Key Takeaways

1. Accept What Is Outside of Your Control: Epictetus emphasizes the importance of accepting what is outside of our control, such as external events or other people’s actions. He argues that we should focus on what is within our control, such as our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
2. Focus on Your Own Actions: Epictetus argues that we should focus on our own actions and strive to live in accordance with nature. He emphasizes the importance of living virtuously and acting with integrity.
3. Freedom is Internal: Epictetus argues that true freedom comes from within and is not dependent on external events or other people’s actions. He argues that we should strive to be free from fear, anger, and other negative emotions.

Who Should Read It

The Discourses of Epictetus is best suited for readers who are interested in philosophy, particularly Stoic philosophy. It is also a useful read for anyone who is looking for guidance on how to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

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Stoicism by John Sellars

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Stoicism by John Sellars is a book that delves deep into the history, philosophy, and practical application of Stoicism, an ancient school of philosophy that arose in 3rd century BCE Greece.

It offers a comprehensive account of the life and teachings of its three foundational figures—Zeno of Citium, Chrysippus, and Epictetus—and an exploration of the relevance of Stoicism today.

Key Takeaways

1. The Origins and Development of Stoicism: This section of the book explores the history and development of Stoicism from its roots in ancient Greece to its modern-day re-emergence. It looks at how Stoicism has evolved and adapted to changing times, as well as how its core teachings can be applied to everyday life.
2. Stoic Ethics: This section examines the ethical system of Stoicism, with a particular focus on its three core principles—virtue, duty, and happiness. It looks at how these principles can be used to develop a more meaningful life, while also discussing the Stoic view of the world and its relation to happiness.
3. Stoic Practice: The final section of the book offers practical advice on how to incorporate Stoic principles into one’s daily life. It offers advice on how to practice the Stoic virtues of courage, moderation, and justice, and how to use Stoic strategies to overcome challenges and achieve peace of mind.

Who Should Read It

Stoicism is an ideal book for anyone interested in learning more about the history and philosophy of Stoicism, as well as those looking for practical advice on how to incorporate its teachings into everyday life. It is also suitable for readers who are looking for a deeper understanding of what makes up a meaningful life.

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A New Stoicism by Laurence Becker

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A New Stoicism by Laurence Becker is a book that explores the practical application of ancient Stoic philosophy to modern life.

The book examines the Stoic concept of virtue and argues that the Stoic worldview can provide a meaningful approach to living a good life in today’s world.

Key Takeaways

1. The central tenet of Stoicism is the belief in the pursuit of virtue. The Stoics argued that a virtuous life was the only life worth living, and that through the pursuit of virtue, one could attain peace of mind and a sense of contentment.
2. The Stoics believed that one should strive to live according to nature, which can be understood as living in harmony with both the natural world and human nature. This includes accepting the reality of death and focusing on the present moment.
3. The Stoics also believed in the power of reason and the importance of developing self-discipline. They argued that by cultivating a rational and disciplined approach to life, one could achieve a sense of tranquility in the face of life’s inevitable difficulties and tribulations.
4. In the book, Becker explores the relevance of Stoic philosophy to modern life and advocates for its practical application. He argues that Stoicism can provide a meaningful framework for living a good life in today’s world.

Who Should Read It

A New Stoicism by Laurence Becker is an ideal read for those looking to explore the practical application of ancient Stoic philosophy. Those interested in understanding how to live a meaningful life in today’s world would benefit from this book.

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Dying Every Day by James Romm

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Dying Every Day is a book by James Romm that examines the life and legacy of the Roman Stoic philosopher Seneca.

The book considers Seneca’s life, his writings, and his eventual death under the orders of the emperor Nero.

It explores the moral and ethical implications of his life and his writings, and how his ideas have impacted philosophy and literature for centuries.

Key Takeaways

1. Seneca was a Roman Stoic philosopher and statesman who served as an advisor to Emperor Nero.
2. He wrote extensively on Stoic philosophy and morality, and his writings have had a lasting impact on philosophy and literature.
3. Seneca’s life was full of controversy, including his involvement in the Pisonian conspiracy and his ultimate demise at Nero’s orders.

Seneca was born in the Roman province of Hispania around 4 BC, and his family was well-connected to the imperial court.

He became a prominent figure in Nero’s court and served as the emperor’s advisor. Seneca was an influential Stoic philosopher, writing extensively on Stoic ethics and morality.

He was particularly known for his writings on the importance of self-control and living in harmony with nature. His writings had a lasting impact on philosophy and literature, and have been studied for centuries.

Seneca’s life was full of controversy. He was accused of being involved in the Pisonian conspiracy, a plot to assassinate Nero, and was forced to commit suicide by Nero. His death served as a cautionary tale for those who oppose the emperor and his power.

Who Should Read It

The book is best suited for students and scholars of philosophy, history, and literature, as well as anyone interested in the life and legacy of Seneca. It is an in-depth examination of Seneca’s life and writings, and the philosophical implications of his life and death.

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How to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald Robertson

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In How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, author Donald Robertson draws on the writings of Marcus Aurelius, the last emperor of the Roman Empire, to provide insights into how to live a meaningful life. Robertson examines the Stoic philosophy of Marcus Aurelius and how it can be used to address common problems in modern life.

He provides practical advice on how to live a life of purpose and how to deal with difficult emotions.

Key Takeaways

1. Stoicism is an ancient form of philosophy that emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and accepting the natural course of events. It was developed by the Greek philosopher Zeno of Citium, and later adopted by the Roman Empire. Stoicism advocates for the use of reason and logic to navigate life’s obstacles, rather than relying on emotional responses.
2. Marcus Aurelius was a Stoic philosopher and the last emperor of the Roman Empire. During his reign, he wrote his thoughts down in his book Meditations, which has become one of the most influential works of philosophy in history. In it, he discusses the importance of living a life of purpose and virtue, and how to deal with difficult emotions such as anger, fear, and envy.
3. Robertson argues that modern readers can learn from Marcus Aurelius’ philosophy and it can be used to address common problems in modern life. He provides practical advice on how to live a life of purpose and how to deal with difficult emotions. He also examines the importance of self-awareness and how it can help us to make better decisions.

Who Should Read It

How to Think Like a Roman Emperor is suitable for anyone looking to gain insights into Stoic philosophy and how to live a meaningful life. It is especially helpful for readers who are experiencing difficult emotions or looking for practical advice on how to face life’s challenges.

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A Man in Full by Tom Wolfe

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Tom Wolfe’s 1998 novel, A Man in Full, is a story about the struggles of a wealthy Atlanta businessman as he attempts to navigate a rapidly changing world and fight to keep his fortune.

The novel follows the life of Conrad Hensley, a former college football star, and his interactions with the varied characters that make up the Atlanta upper class.

Key Takeaways

1. The power of money and social status: A Man in Full demonstrates how money and social status can both bring power and cause destruction. Conrad Hensley’s struggle to keep his fortune amidst the fast-changing modern world serves as a warning to those who rely too heavily on money and status.
2. The importance of morality: A Man in Full emphasizes the importance of morality and ethical choices, as Conrad is forced to confront the consequences of his past decisions.
3. The power of relationships: Throughout the novel, relationships become a source of strength and security for Conrad, as he relies on the support of friends, family, and even strangers to help him in his time of need.

Who Should Read It

A Man in Full is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy complex stories of wealth and power. The novel’s exploration of morality, relationships, and the struggles of the upper class make it a great read for those who are interested in the effects of money and status on individuals and society as a whole.

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Examined Lives by James Miller

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Examined Lives by James Miller offers an examination of the lives of twelve great thinkers—Socrates, Jesus, Augustine, Machiavelli, Montaigne, Descartes, Rousseau, Kant, Mill, Nietzsche, Freud, and Arendt—in order to understand and answer the question: What does it mean to live a meaningful life?

Key Takeaways

1. The importance of relationships and connection: Miller argues that the most meaningful lives are those that involve meaningful relationships and connections with other people. He uses examples from the lives of Socrates, Jesus, Augustine, and Montaigne to illustrate how relationships are key to living a meaningful life.
2. The importance of self-reflection: Miller argues that self-reflection and introspection are essential for a meaningful life. He uses examples from Rousseau, Kant, and Mill to show how self-reflection can help us to make sense of our lives and find meaning in them.
3. The importance of creativity and innovation: Miller argues that creativity and innovation are necessary for meaningful living. He uses examples from Nietzsche, Freud, and Arendt to explore how creativity can be used to address difficult questions and find new solutions to old problems.

Who Should Read It

Examined Lives by James Miller is best suited for readers who are interested in gaining insight into the lives of twelve of history’s greatest thinkers, and who are looking for answers to the question: What does it mean to live a meaningful life? The book is also suitable for those who are interested in exploring the importance of relationships, self-reflection, and creativity in a meaningful life.

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Over to You

Having a working knowledge of Stoicism can be extremely beneficial to anyone looking to live a more meaningful and purpose-driven life. With the wide range of books available on the topic, there is something for everyone to read and learn from.

Whether you are seeking an introduction to the philosophy, an in-depth look at the Stoic teachings, or an exploration of Stoic influences on modern life, these 30+ best books on Stoicism offer something for everyone.

Take the time to explore the writings of the Stoic philosophers and see how their wisdom and counsel can help you live a life of peace, joy, and purpose.

How will you use what you’ve learned to live a life of Stoic virtue?