On Theory vs Practice with Musonius Rufus (Episode 25)

Musonius used to say that it was the height of shamelessness to think about how weak our bodies are when enduring pain, but to forget how weak they are when experiencing pleasure.

In this podcast, Michael and I discuss the Roman Socrates, Musonius Rufus. Musonius Rufus was the teacher of Epictetus. He played a crucial role building Roman Stoicism. We talk about who he was, what writings we have from him, and three key practical ideas from his thought: the division between theory and practice, Spartan minimalism, and egalitarianism.

(01:40) Introduction

(09:31) Theory vs Practice

(17:33) Spartan Minimalism

(31:35) Egalitarianism

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Stoa Conversations is Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay’s podcast on Stoic theory and practice.

Caleb and Michael work together on the Stoa app. Stoa is designed to help you build resilience and focus on what matters. It combines the practical philosophy of Stoicism with modern techniques and meditation.

Become more Stoic with the Stoa app.

Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribe

Caleb Ontiveros has a background in academic philosophy (MA) and startups. His favorite Stoic is Marcus Aurelius. Follow him here: https://twitter.com/calebmontiveros

Michael Tremblay also has a background in academic philosophy (PhD) where he focused on Epictetus. He is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His favorite Stoic is Epictetus. Follow him here: https://twitter.com/_MikeTremblay

Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations.