How to Think Like Socrates: Stoicism, Happiness, and Anger

In this episode, I sit down with Donald Robertson, cognitive-behavioural therapist, Stoic expert, and author of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor and How to Think Like Socrates.

We explore how ancient philosophy, particularly Stoicism and the teachings of Socrates, laid the foundation for modern psychotherapy. This conversation goes well beyond surface-level “self-improvement” and into something much deeper, about what it actually means to live well.

Donald breaks down the idea of eudaimonia, a richer, more meaningful version of happiness, and shares how Socratic questioning can help us think more clearly, respond more calmly, and live with greater wisdom and courage.

We also dive into his latest work on anger, unpacking why so much modern content is fueling frustration rather than resolving it, and how Stoic and CBT-based tools can help us navigate the noise of today’s world.

Key Topics Discussed:

● Real happiness isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about living well with purpose, wisdom, and integrity

● Asking better questions can completely change how you think, feel, and respond. Confidence without self-awareness can lead to “double ignorance” and poor decisions

● Many external pursuits (money, status, success) are tools, not the foundation of a good life. Flexibility in thinking is more powerful than rigid rules when it comes to resilience

● Much of modern content feeds anger, but awareness gives you a choice in how you respond

● Reflecting on life’s bigger picture, including mortality, can bring clarity to what truly matters

About Donald Robertson

Donald Robertson is a cognitive behavioural therapist, author, and leading voice in modern Stoic philosophy. His work focuses on bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary psychology, helping people build resilience, emotional clarity, and practical tools for everyday life.

He is the author of several influential books, including How to Think Like a Roman Emperor and How to Think Like Socrates, along with a forthcoming book exploring anger, Stoicism, and the fall of the Roman Republic.

Action from This Episode:

● Take a moment today to question one of your own assumptions.

● Ask yourself: “What do I really mean by this?” or “How do I know this is true?”

● You might be surprised by what you uncover.

Resources & Links:

How to Think Like a Roman Emperor

How to Think Like Socrates

Connect with Donald Robertson:

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Donald Robertson Website