The Philosopher King and the Enlightened Prince: Stoicism and Buddhism

What do a Roman emperor and an Indian prince, living worlds apart, have to teach us today?
Marcus Aurelius ruled an empire, yet turned inward through Stoic reflection. Siddhartha Gautama left behind a kingdom to seek liberation from suffering. Though born in different times and cultures, their paths reveal a shared commitment to clarity, compassion, and inner discipline.

In this conversation, we’ll explore:

• How Stoicism and Buddhism each approach suffering, selfhood, and control
• The political and cultural contexts that shaped their thinking
• Practices both traditions offer for navigating modern life
• Points of overlap and divergence—and what they reveal about East and West

Optional reflection prompt:
Which path speaks more to your present moment—the disciplined duty of the king, or the renunciation of the prince?