How to Think Like a Roman Emperor audiobook cover - The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius

How to Think Like a Roman Emperor

The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius

Donald Robertson

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Philosophy

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How to Think Like a Roman Emperor
Core Philosophy+
Emotional Mastery+
Handling Hardship & Pain+
Ego & Mortality+
Accountability & Mentorship+
Communication & Leadership+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 9
What is the fundamental idea of living a satisfying life according to the core tenets of Stoicism?
  • A. To suppress negative emotions and achieve total logical control over others.
  • B. To live in harmony with the natural order of things.
  • C. To endure physical pain without ever complaining or seeking help.
  • D. To achieve authentic happiness through the fulfillment of material desires.
Question 2 of 9
Which of the following make up the four cardinal virtues outlined in early Stoic writings?
  • A. Wisdom, morality, courage, and moderation.
  • B. Patience, empathy, resilience, and logic.
  • C. Wealth, health, power, and reputation.
  • D. Joy, peace, acceptance, and discipline.
Question 3 of 9
How do Stoics like Marcus Aurelius achieve what is referred to as 'authentic happiness'?
  • A. By ensuring a steady stream of quick and easy physical pleasures.
  • B. By isolating themselves from society to avoid emotional triggers.
  • C. By deriving satisfaction purely from virtuous living rather than fulfilled desires.
  • D. By seeking the approval and admiration of the citizens they lead.
Question 4 of 9
What is the Stoic technique of 'cognitive distance'?
  • A. Ignoring the existence of a problem until it resolves itself naturally.
  • B. Consciously separating yourself from your emotions to view situations objectively.
  • C. Distancing yourself physically from people who cause you stress or anger.
  • D. Projecting your negative emotions onto an imaginary mentor.
Question 5 of 9
What was Marcus Aurelius's perspective on leaving a permanent legacy and achieving historical immortality?
  • A. He believed it was the ultimate duty of a Roman Emperor to be remembered forever.
  • B. He felt it was a logical goal that required daily meditation to achieve.
  • C. He viewed it as an illogical pursuit, accepting that everything in history is eventually forgotten.
  • D. He believed legacy was only attainable through military conquest and strict laws.
Question 6 of 9
How did Marcus Aurelius handle his chronic physical pain using Stoic philosophy?
  • A. He used his wealth to buy the best remedies and completely eliminate the pain.
  • B. He suppressed all physical sensations, pretending the pain did not exist.
  • C. He meditated on the 'geography of his pain,' confining it to its physical source so it wouldn't infect his mind.
  • D. He complained about it frequently to his mentors to release the emotional burden.
Question 7 of 9
Why do modern Stoics practice 'voluntary hardship', such as taking cold showers?
  • A. To punish themselves for past unvirtuous actions and mistakes.
  • B. To condition the mind for adversity and avoid taking conveniences for granted.
  • C. To prove their physical superiority over people who do not practice Stoicism.
  • D. To cure chronic illnesses and reduce physical pain.
Question 8 of 9
What technique did Marcus Aurelius rely on for accountability when he no longer had trusted sounding boards later in life?
  • A. He consulted the Roman Senate for daily feedback on his behavior.
  • B. He wrote public confessions to hold himself accountable to the citizens.
  • C. He asked himself what an imaginary virtuous mentor would do in his shoes.
  • D. He relied entirely on his own infallible judgment as emperor.
Question 9 of 9
Instead of using emotional and flowery rhetoric, what communication style did Marcus Aurelius adopt?
  • A. Counter-rhetoric, using plain and simple language to state objective facts.
  • B. Aggressive debate tactics to overpower his political opponents with fear.
  • C. Complete silence, refusing to speak unless it was absolutely necessary.
  • D. Poetic verse, to appeal to the artistic sensibilities of the Roman crowd.

How to Think Like a Roman Emperor — Full Chapter Overview

How to Think Like a Roman Emperor Summary & Overview

How to Think Like a Roman Emperor (2019) describes the guiding principles of Stoicism through the life and writings of Marcus Aurelius. As one of the most esteemed Roman emperors, his most admired characteristics as a leader were informed by the philosophy of the Stoics. We also find out how these practices can be followed by anyone today.

Who Should Listen to How to Think Like a Roman Emperor?

  • Amateur and advanced Stoics looking for a fresh perspective
  • People curious about the life of Marcus Aurelius
  • Anyone interested in how ancient philosophy mixes with modern psychology

About the Author: Donald Robertson

Donald Robertson was born in Scotland and worked for two decades as a psychotherapist in London. Since 2011, he has helped run the annual Stoic Week, an international event teaching students how to mix Stoic philosophy with modern psychology.

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