Distinguished Scholar Series: Brittany Polat
Details
Join us for our monthly conversation with a scholar in Modern Stoicism or another branch of philosophy. This month, we welcome Brittany Polat, a writer, speaker, and scholar whose work explores Stoicism as a lived philosophy and its deep connections with other wisdom traditions.
Brittany is the author of several books related to Stoicism and a Good Life and has an upcoming book, Jesus and Stoicism The Parallel Sayings, where she brings ancient texts into direct conversation to reveal their shared ethical vision. Her work highlights how Stoic philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, alongside the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels, offer converging insights into how we might live with integrity, compassion, and purpose in a complex modern world.
Through careful comparison of these traditions, Brittany illuminates a powerful common ground, a commitment to virtue, the cultivation of inner character over outward status, and a deep concern for how we relate to others. Her work is not merely theoretical, it is grounded in the practical question of how these teachings can guide everyday life, relationships, and decision making.
In our conversation, Brittany will explore
- The shared ethical foundations of Stoicism and Christianity, and what they reveal about human flourishing
- How teachings from Jesus and the Stoics converge on themes like compassion, forgiveness, and universal concern
- The importance of inner integrity over external success in both traditions
- Practical ways these ancient philosophies can help navigate modern challenges, including relationships and emotional life
- How reading these traditions side by side can deepen our understanding of both
Brittany’s work speaks to a wide audience, from those rooted in Christian traditions to those drawn to Stoic philosophy, as well as anyone interested in the intersection of philosophy, religion, and daily life. She offers a thoughtful and accessible approach to questions that have shaped human reflection for centuries.
The conversation will be hosted by Joe Bullock, followed by a Q and A session where attendees can ask Brittany their questions directly.
We look forward to an engaging discussion with someone who brings ancient wisdom traditions into meaningful dialogue for the modern world.
Learn more about Brittany Polat
- Website https://www.brittanypolat.com/
- Book Jesus and Stoicism The Parallel Sayings: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Stoicism-Parallel-Brittany-Polat-ebook/dp/B0FCG91XP4/
- Talk Did Jesus and the Stoics Teach the Same Ethics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBjgEe6v1vg
- Podcast appearance Stoic Wisdom for Modern Relationships: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTOQAuKPVXs
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Our group fosters open minded, respectful dialogue on Stoicism and its intersections with science, culture, history, other belief systems, and popular culture. We are committed to thoughtful discussion and intellectual growth. When views differ, we agree to disagree.
