How to Think Like a Roman Emperor: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
An emperor practised philosophy
Robertson, a psychotherapist, tells the story of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor who used Stoic philosophy to cope with war, plague and personal loss.
He shows how Marcus's private notes, the Meditations, were exercises in training his own mind.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Stoicism inspired modern therapy
Robertson explains that cognitive behavioural therapy, a common form of modern therapy, was partly inspired by Stoic ideas.
Both focus on how our thoughts shape our emotions. Ancient wisdom still helps people manage anxiety and anger.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Step back from your thoughts
Robertson describes cognitive distancing: noticing that it is our judgements about events, not the events themselves, that upset us.
Stepping back reduces their power. Thoughts are treated as hypotheses, not facts.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Mentors shaped Marcus
Robertson describes Marcus's teachers, including Junius Rusticus, who introduced him to Stoic ideas.
Their guidance helped him develop character. Good teachers can shape a whole life, even an emperor's. He honoured them.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Imagine the view from above
Robertson describes an exercise Marcus used: imagining the world from high above.
Seeing life in a wider perspective makes problems seem smaller. Worries shrink. Perspective brings calm and humility. It worked.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Prepare for difficulties
Robertson explains the Stoic practice of imagining possible setbacks in advance.
This premeditation helps people respond calmly when difficulties come. Shock is softened by preparation, and courage grows from rehearsal.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Avoid catastrophising
Robertson describes decatastrophising, questioning exaggerated fears about the future.
Marcus reminded himself that problems are often less terrible than they seem. Fears often shrink when examined calmly and realistically, one by one.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Face death calmly
Robertson describes how Marcus prepared for death by reflecting on its naturalness.
This helped him live with courage and peace. Mortality, accepted, lends urgency and calm to each day. He died calmly.
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