This is Part 2 of the story of Stoicism with Donald J Robertson. We discuss Socrates's uncomplicated take on the truth. How did the Stoic philosophy of Socrates differ from that of Marcus Aurelius? We look at how Stoicism (and beards) became popular in Rome. Some of the Stoics we talk about include Cato the Younger, Epictetus, . How did Roman (or Mediterranean) slavery differ from the Transatlantic Slave Trade? We look at why Roman senators plotted to assassinate Julius Caesar after he became "dictator for life". Did you know Brutus was a nephew of Cato? We discuss Octavian's rise to power and how he paved the way for Roman emperors to get into Stoicism. Donald tells us more about Nero's spin doctor, Seneca. Why did this famous Stoic writer remain loyal to the murderous Nero? We ultimately touch on the thinking of Marcus Aurelius. How would Marcus Aurelius have dealt with a year like 2020? He also faced a pandemic (the Antonine Plague) in lifetime, but to him there was a more serious pandemic - anger. A great conversation to end 2020 with!
Visit Donald's website or find him on twitter @DonJRobertson. Find us on twitter as well @WilliamHPalk or C_duPlessis.