Donald J. Robertson is a cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist, trainer, and writer. He was born in Ayrshire, Scotland, and after living in England and working in London for many years, he emigrated to Canada, and now resides in Quebec. Robertson has been researching Stoicism and applying it in his work for over twenty years. He is one of the founding members of the non-profit organization Modern Stoicism. He is also the founder and president of the Plato's Academy Centre non-profit in Greece. Robertson is the author of Verissimus and How to Think Like a Roman Emperor.

"One of the best books ever written on the power and practicality of philosophy for a good and successful life! Wisdom isn't a rulebook but a mindset. It develops from a life of honest and courageous inquiry. Donald J. Robertson masterfully and vividly takes us back to the Athens of Socrates and recreates the setting as well as the powerful ideas that one place, time, and person launched into the world forever. It's an introduction to philosophy as a way of life that's as gripping as any novel, and is as novel as a philosophy book can be. Highly recommended!"
--Tom Morris, author of If Aristotle Ran General Motors, The Oasis Within, and Plato's Lemonade Stand, coauthor of Stoicism for Dummies

"Robertson creates a wonderful semi-fictionalized Socrates to introduce modern readers to the birth of philosophy in Athens. We experience first-hand the method Socrates made famous--of subjecting our deepest beliefs to a cross-examination that jolts and stings like an electric ray. In our modern world that swirls with half-truths and disinformation, we need nothing less to awaken us from our illusions."
--Nancy Sherman, author of Stoic Wisdom: Ancient Lessons for Modern Resilience

"An intriguing and original book, engagingly written and highly accessible. It is innovative both in linking the Socratic dialogues, especially those of Plato, with their historical context and in highlighting the significance of Socratic philosophical enquiry for modern readers. The connection made between Socratic method and CBT psychotherapeutic guidance is particularly suggestive."
--Chris Gill, Professor Emeritus of Ancient Thought, Exeter University, and author of Learning to Live Naturally: Stoic Ethics and its Modern Significance

"A fresh and original introduction to the figure of Socrates, blending philosophy, history, and psychotherapy. Robertson invites readers to take up the Socratic method of self-examination and to embrace a life guided by rational reflection."
--John Sellars, reader in philosophy at Royal Holloway, University of London and author of The Pocket Stoic

"Don Robertson is your trusty and insightful guide to the life, times, and thought of the most important philosopher in the western tradition."
--Massimo Pigliucci, author of How to Be a Stoic

"Robertson draws incisive links between modern psychotherapy and ancient philosophy, bringing Socratic dialogues to life through colorful narration and detail. It's a creative look at the enduring relevance of an ancient thinker."
--Publishers Weekly

Publisher: St. Martin's Press

Pub date: 2024-11-19

Length: 368 pages