1031. The importance of memory

1031. The importance of memory

Author: Massimo Pigliucci April 6, 2022 Duration: 2:55

Consider within yourself, whether you have always shown gratitude to those to whom you owe it, whether no one’s kindness has ever been wasted upon you, whether you constantly bear in mind all the benefits which you have received.


In a world that often feels chaotic and demanding, the ancient philosophy of Stoicism offers a surprisingly practical framework for living with clarity and purpose. Stoic Meditations is a series of thoughtful, standalone episodes where professor and philosopher Massimo Pigliucci draws directly from the source material of thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus. Each session focuses on a specific passage or idea, unpacking its meaning and, more importantly, its direct application to the challenges of modern life. You’ll hear Pigliucci’s calm and considered voice guiding you through these reflections, not as abstract history lessons, but as immediate tools for managing anxiety, making ethical decisions, and cultivating resilience. This isn't about academic lectures; it's about turning timeless wisdom into personal practice. The episodes are deliberately concise, designed to be absorbed during a quiet moment of your day, providing a grounded perspective that lingers long after the audio ends. For anyone curious about philosophy that is meant to be lived, not just studied, this podcast serves as both an accessible introduction and a deep, recurring resource. The production, with its original music, supports a contemplative atmosphere, making each meditation a genuine pause for reflection. Tune in to find a steady, reasoned companion for navigating complexity, one ancient insight at a time.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Stoic Meditations
Podcast Episodes
1054. Be careful the company you keep [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:40
We should choose for our friends those who are, as far as possible, free from strong desires: for vices are contagious, and pass from someone to their neighbor, and injure those who touch them.
1051. Consider how much or how little you can do [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:18
We ought therefore, to expand or contract ourselves according as the state of things presents itself to us, or as Fortune offers us opportunities.
1050. Be a good citizen [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:33
The services of a good citizen are never thrown away: he does good by being heard and seen, by his expression, his gestures, his silent determination, and his very walk.
1049. Wisdom and age [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:11
Often a man who is very old in years has nothing beyond his age by which he can prove that he has lived a long time.
1048. Serving the cosmopolis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:38
Seneca explains that there are many ways to help improve the human cosmopolis: one can be a candidate for public office, a defense lawyer, or a teacher. Zeno, Cleanthes, and Chrysippus encouraged involvement in politics,…
1046. Don't flee from yourself [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:24
Hence men undertake aimless wanderings and travel along distant shores, trying to soothe that fickleness of disposition which always is dissatisfied with the present. As Lucretius says: “Thus every mortal from himself do…