Stoicism, an ancient philosophy that teaches personal virtue and wisdom as a path to true happiness, has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years.
This renewed interest can be attributed to the works of modern authors who’ve effectively made Stoicism accessible to the 21st-century audience. Here’s a list of some modern Stoic writers whose books have helped popularize Stoicism.
1. Ryan Holiday
Perhaps the most well-known contemporary figure in the Stoic community, Ryan Holiday has made considerable strides in popularizing Stoicism, especially among the younger generation. His book, “The Obstacle Is the Way,” draws from Stoic principles to show how challenges can be transformed into opportunities. Additionally, his “Daily Stoic” offers daily meditations on Stoicism, serving as a practical guide for those looking to integrate Stoic practices into their daily lives.
2. Donald J. Robertson
Donald Robertson is a cognitive-behavioral therapist and author who has combined his professional knowledge with his interest in Stoicism. In his book, “How to Think Like a Roman Emperor: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius,” Robertson provides readers with a captivating blend of biography, historical narrative, and practical Stoic wisdom. By drawing parallels between cognitive-behavioral therapy and Stoic practices, Robertson bridges the gap between ancient teachings and modern psychology.
3. William B. Irvine
William B. Irvine‘s “A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy” is a seminal work in modern Stoic literature. Irvine offers a contemporary interpretation of Stoicism, arguing for its relevance in today’s world. He delves deep into the Stoic practices and provides actionable advice on how to lead a good life by embracing Stoic principles. His approach is both philosophical and practical, making Stoicism approachable for beginners while also offering depth for seasoned practitioners.
4. Massimo Pigliucci
A philosopher and evolutionary biologist, Massimo Pigliucci has contributed significantly to the Stoic community with his writings and lectures. His book, “How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life,” provides a practical guide to Stoicism, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical contexts, and hands-on exercises. Pigliucci also actively engages with the Stoic community through his Stoic Meditations podcast and his involvement in organizing Stoicon, an annual convention for modern Stoics.
5. Phil Van Treuren
The Stoic author Phil Van Treuren writes books and articles about Stoicism that try to simplify the philosophy and make it more accessible to a broader audience. His books for children about Stoic philosophy include “The Stock Horse and the Stable Cat,” “A Dog Who Follows Gladly,” and “The Stoic Fable Book.” His weekly “One-Minute Stoicism” videos provide a fun, easy-to-understand overview of Stoic concepts and teachings.