The Via Stoica Podcast — A Stoic Way of Life A Stoic Conversation with Dr. John Sellars: Stoicism Rediscovered Beyond the Buzzword
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Aug 25, 2025 
Dr. John Sellars, a leading scholar in Stoicism and a Reader in the History of Philosophy at Royal Holloway, shares his insights on the enduring relevance of Stoicism. He clarifies common misconceptions about the philosophy, including the ideas that it's unemotional or for men only. The conversation delves into his personal journey with philosophy, emphasizing the balance between ego and ambition. Sellars also discusses the appeal of ancient ethics in today's world, the impact of community on mental health, and the intriguing complexities of Stoic beliefs about determinism and divinity.
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Bridge Popular And Academic Stoicism
- Popular Stoicism focuses on ethics while academic Stoicism long emphasized logic and physics.
- Bridging those strands reveals the full depth of Stoic thought and practice.
Choose Stoic Resources That Join Theory And Practice
- If you want a reliable introduction, choose carefully and prefer works that join theory and practice.
- Update your resources as scholarship advances to avoid outdated or simplistic views.
Stoicism's Broad Appeal And Flexibility
- Stoicism attracts diverse seekers: resilience trainers, meditators, therapists, religious and nonreligious people.
- Its flexibility lets individuals emphasize naturalistic or religious elements to fit their worldview.
