Episode 1154: Donald Robertson -How to Think Like Socrates: Stoicism, Happiness, and Anger
In this episode, I sit down with Donald Robertson, cognitive-behavioural therapist, Stoic expert, and author of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor and How to Think Like Socrates. We explore how ancient philosophy, particularly Stoicism and the teachings of Socrates, laid the foundation for modern psychotherapy. This conversation goes well beyond surface-level "self-improvement" and into something much deeper, about what it actually means to live well. Donald breaks down the idea of eudaimonia, a richer, more meaningful version of happiness, and shares how Socratic questioning can help us think more clearly, respond more calmly, and live with greater wisdom and courage. We also dive into his latest work on anger, unpacking why so much modern content is fuelling frustration rather than resolving it, and how Stoic and CBT-based tools can help us navigate the noise of today's world. Key Topics Discussed:
• Donald's background and how he blends philosophy, psychotherapy, and Stoicism
• Why psychotherapy didn't begin with Freud and how ancient philosophy acted as "therapy for the soul."
• Socrates and the Socratic method ask better questions to uncover truth and challenge assumptions
• The difference between ignorance and "double ignorance" and why overconfidence is often the bigger problem
• The role of the Sophists and how their influence mirrors modern media, influencers, and political rhetoric
• Why modern "happiness" has become shallow and what eudaimonia really means
• The Stoic view of a good life: virtue, wisdom, and character over status or pleasure
• The three Delphic maxims: self-awareness, moderation, and the danger of overconfidence
• How reflecting on mortality can reset priorities and bring clarity to what truly matters
• Why much of today's self-help content isn't helping and may actually increase anxiety and anger
• The importance of flexibility in thinking and coping, rather than rigid rules
• Prosoche (Stoic mindfulness) — learning to pause, observe, and question your reactions
• The connection between Socratic thinking and modern CBT techniques, including journaling and thought analysis
• Why anger is so powerful — and how it's often used to manipulate, simplify, and divide
• Practical ways to apply Socratic questioning in everyday life and conversations
• Real happiness isn't just about feeling good it's about living well with purpose, wisdom, and integrity
• Asking better questions can completely change how you think, feel, and respond
• Confidence without self-awareness can lead to "double ignorance" and poor decisions
• Many external pursuits (money, status, success) are tools, not the foundation of a good life
• Flexibility in thinking is more powerful than rigid rules when it comes to resilience
• Much of modern content feeds anger, but awareness gives you a choice in how you respond
• Reflecting on life's bigger picture, including mortality, can bring clarity to what truly matters
About Donald Robertson Donald Robertson is a cognitive behavioural therapist, author, and leading voice in modern Stoic philosophy. His work focuses on bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary psychology, helping people build resilience, emotional clarity, and practical tools for everyday life. He is the author of several influential books, including How to Think Like a Roman Emperor and How to Think Like Socrates, along with a forthcoming book exploring anger, Stoicism, and the fall of the Roman Republic. Resources & Links How to Think Like a Roman Emperor (https://amzn.asia/d/0f0HBYiW) How to Think Like Socrates (https://amzn.asia/d/0hr1xjIZ) Donald Robertson Social Medias Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/donaldjrobertson/?hl=en) X (https://x.com/DonJRobertson) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/robertsontraining/) Donald Robertson Website (https://donaldrobertson.name/)
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