With guest speaker Eryk Jan Grzeszkowiak, Chair of the Scotland Stoics.

This talk will explore how Stoicism, one of the most practical philosophies, has influenced modern psychotherapy and continues to offer valuable insights for mental well-being. Through the timeless teachings of Stoic philosophers like Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius, we will discuss how these ancient ideas remain relevant today in improving mental health. In our complex world, many people find purpose by aligning their lives with Stoic virtues: fortitude, wisdom, justice, and temperance.

Core concepts, such as the dichotomy of control – focusing on what is within our control and recognising what is not – help Stoics cultivate emotional resilience and foster inner peace. A central goal in Stoicism is achieving “eudaimonia,” a Greek term often translated as “flourishing,” “happiness,” or “self-realisation.” In this talk, we will explore how we can all get closer to this ideal by following practical life advice that has withstood the test of time for over two millennia.

The Scotland Stoics bring together individuals interested in studying, discussing, and practising Stoic philosophy. Since 2023, they have organised monthly philosophy discussion meetings in Edinburgh and cultivated a Stoic community or “stoa.” Through projects like the Stoic Library, interviews with authors, and regular gatherings, they aim to introduce newcomers to Stoicism as well as provide a space for deeper exploration of Stoic teachings.

The meeting will be chaired by Cathy Crawford.

This online meeting will be followed by an in-person social meeting in the same week, and you are also very welcome to join the Humanist Pub Night in the back room of The Kenilworth Pub on Rose Street, Edinburgh on Wednesday 4 December 2024 from 7pm onwards.  This will allow people to meet informally and discuss this topic further if they wish to.