Course description

"The seminar (konwersatorium) offers students a practical introduction to philosophical methods for managing stress and difficult emotions as developed within the Stoic tradition—from antiquity to the present day. Students will explore the theoretical foundations and master the practical application of Stoic mental tools offered by Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, tracing their evolution into modern psychotherapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The practical goal of this seminar is to equip students with powerful mental tools for managing stress in their own lives.     

In an age of unprecedented change and uncertainty, stress has become an inescapable part of modern life. Yet over two thousand years ago, ancient philosophers developed remarkably effective tools for navigating life's challenges with resilience and inner peace. This seminar bridges the ancient and modern worlds, offering students a practical introduction to Stoic philosophy as a living tradition for managing stress and difficult emotions.

The Stoic school provided a comprehensive framework for understanding human psychology and cultivating mental well-being. Stoicism was always a practical philosophy—a set of mental exercises designed for daily application. The great Stoic teachers—Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius—wrote from the midst of their own struggles: exile, slavery, and the weight of empire. Their insights emerged from lived experience and real hardship.

Students will explore core Stoic principles and their application to contemporary challenges. We'll examine the fundamental distinction between what lies within our control and what does not, techniques for managing negative emotions, and methods for reframing difficult situations. The seminar also traces how Stoic ideas have influenced modern psychology, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, one of the most evidence-based approaches to treating anxiety and depression.

Each session combines philosophical discussion with practical exercises, including negative visualization, journaling, and real-world applications. The ultimate aim is deeply practical: to equip students with mental strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and living with greater intention and tranquility.

No prior knowledge of philosophy is required—only curiosity and openness."