What we’re about
The Global Stoa is an initiative of the School for a New Stoicism. The meetings are facilitated by City College of New York philosopher Massimo Pigliucci. The group is based on the principle that philosophy is a conversation aimed at improving our lives. Every meeting (usually online) focuses on a topic in practical philosophy as understood by the Stoics and other Greco-Roman schools. Discussions are often inspired by a short suggested reading. As Epicurus (not a Stoic!) put it, “Empty is the argument of the philosopher which does not relieve any human suffering.”
Upcoming events (3)
See all- [NYC Stoics] In-person Stoic Discussion + hangoutPier 57, New York, NY
[Cross-posted from NYC Stoics]
Come join us for in-person Stoic discussion!
Here's our agenda for this meetup:
4-5pm: informal, optional hangout:
- Grab some food from Market 57 and let's just hang out and chat about whatever. It's okay to skip this part if you just want to come for the Stoicism
5-7pm: The main event:
- Open Q&A and discussion about Stoicism
- Deep read of Enchiridion 25: we'll read through Enchiridion 25 together and share our main practical takeaways. (You can compare multiple public domain translations here: https://enchiridion.tasuki.org/)
You're welcome to come only for the Stoic discussion from 5-7pm, or just show up at 4pm for the more open hangout and discussion.
Notes on the venue: We'll be in Oyster Classroom in Pier 57 (25 11th Ave New York, NY 10011), which I reserved just for our group. Outside food is not permitted, but food from the nearby Market 57 is. Here's a map of the interior of Pier 57: go to Oyster Classroom.
- [Reading Group] Roles, Relationships & Partialism in Epictetus’ Ethical ThoughtLink visible for attendees
[Cross-posted from NYC Stoics]
Over the past two months, we've explored the concept of role ethics in Stoicism -- how one can derive appropriate actions based on one's role. Specifically, we've taken a look at both Ariston's and Panaetius's versions of role ethics. At this meetup, we'll end our exploration or role ethics by diving into arguably the most fleshed-out and nuanced version of it found in Stoicism: that of Epictetus.
To prepare for the meetup, please read Christof Rapp's Roles, Relationships and Partialism in Epictetus' Ethical Thought, which not only gives a solid overview of Epictetus's role ethics, but also touches on the idea of partialism in ethics (that treating those close to you may be permitted, or perhaps required). You can access the full text for free here.
We'll be assuming you did the reading at this meetup, so if you didn't, it's likely you'll be left behind!
- What, if any, is the difference between religion and philosophy?Link visible for attendees
Philosophies of life, religions, what’s the difference? Turns out, there are many similarities between the two, but also some important differences. Let’s get together for a discussion about the nature of belief and faith as both impact the way we live.
Suggested reading: What, if any, is the difference between religion and philosophy?, from Massimo’s Substack, Figs in Winter (free download).
Zoom link: available on this page.
Please plan to log in about five minutes before the meeting. Also note that the zoom room will be locked five minutes after the beginning of the event for security reasons, so come on time!
![[NYC Stoics] In-person Stoic Discussion + hangout cover photo](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/4/8/5/event_524450309.webp "[NYC Stoics] In-person Stoic Discussion + hangout")
![[Reading Group] Roles, Relationships & Partialism in Epictetus’ Ethical Thought cover photo](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/f/4/5/event_528796197.webp "[Reading Group] Roles, Relationships & Partialism in Epictetus’ Ethical Thought")
