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How To Think Like Socrates
How can we apply the teachings of the greatest ancient philosopher to modern life?
Socrates is the most famous ancient philosopher and the father of the entire Western philosophical tradition. He spent his life teaching practical philosophy to ordinary people in the streets of Athens, yet his work has largely been left to gather dust in academia – until now.
How to Think Like Socrates is an entertaining and informative primer on the life of the great thinker – and the first book to focus on applying his ideas to our daily lives. Author Donald Robertson transports readers back to the streets of ancient Athens, expertly weaving together a page-turning account of the visionary man who eschewed material pleasures and stood by his beliefs, even in the face of controversy, with a steadfastness that ultimately resulted in his execution.
How to Think Like Socrates highlights the continuing importance of the four cardinal virtues of Greek wisdom; justice; courage; temperance. As a practising cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, Robertson also uses his expertise to reveal the many ways in which the evidence-based concepts and techniques of modern psychology can trace their roots back to Socrates and shows how his philosophical insights can guide and benefit all of us to this day.
Socrates is the most famous ancient philosopher and the father of the entire Western philosophical tradition. He spent his life teaching practical philosophy to ordinary people in the streets of Athens, yet his work has largely been left to gather dust in academia – until now.
How to Think Like Socrates is an entertaining and informative primer on the life of the great thinker – and the first book to focus on applying his ideas to our daily lives. Author Donald Robertson transports readers back to the streets of ancient Athens, expertly weaving together a page-turning account of the visionary man who eschewed material pleasures and stood by his beliefs, even in the face of controversy, with a steadfastness that ultimately resulted in his execution.
How to Think Like Socrates highlights the continuing importance of the four cardinal virtues of Greek wisdom; justice; courage; temperance. As a practising cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, Robertson also uses his expertise to reveal the many ways in which the evidence-based concepts and techniques of modern psychology can trace their roots back to Socrates and shows how his philosophical insights can guide and benefit all of us to this day.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2024
321 people are currently reading
8378 people want to read
About the author
Donald J. Robertson
11 books1,162 followersDonald J. Robertson is the author of seven books including "How to Think Like a Roman Emperor"; the graphic novel "Verissimus", about the life and philosophy of Marcus Aurelius; a philosophical biography, "Marcus Aurelius: The Stoic Emperor"; and "How to Think Like Socrates", a guide to applying Socratic wisdom to modern life, based on the story of his life.
Donald is a cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, writer, and trainer, specializing in the relationship between ancient philosophy and modern self-improvement psychology. Donald is known for his work on Stoicism and evidence-based psychotherapy. He was born in Ayr, Scotland, but now lives in Quebec and Greece.
Donald is a cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, writer, and trainer, specializing in the relationship between ancient philosophy and modern self-improvement psychology. Donald is known for his work on Stoicism and evidence-based psychotherapy. He was born in Ayr, Scotland, but now lives in Quebec and Greece.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
November 15, 2024
Socrates 101
A review of the St. Martin's Press Kindle ARC via NetGalley, obtained in advance of the official hardcover/ebook/audiobook (November 19, 2024).
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest philosophy/self-help mashup from author Donald J. Robertson who also works as a Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapist. This current book follows the life of Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates (c470-399 BC) by paraphrasing / retelling his teachings & dialogues from the later writings of his students / followers such as Plato (c428-348 BC) and Xenophon (c430-355 BC).
Socrates in the Modern World. Image sourced from a Grok AI creation.
There are no surviving writings by Socrates himself, so what we have are his so-called Socratic dialogues with various historical characters as later recorded by his followers. Reading the translations of works such as Plato's Apology (Socrates' defense at his trial before his verdict, sentencing and execution for impiety and corruption of youth) and other works can sometimes be pretty hard going (see Project Gutenberg for examples).
Robertson has distilled those thorny tracts into a reader user-friendly life-story which incorporates the then current historical events of the struggles of Greek democracy in the age of Pericles, Alcibiades and the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta and then the later period of the Thirty Tyrants. Periodically there are interludes where the question and answer methods of Socratic dialogue are shown as reflected in the methods of modern behavioral therapy.
My thanks to the author, the publisher St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this preview ARC, in exchange for which I provide this honest review.
Quotes
I know they say that you shouldn't use quotes from advance reading copies, but I just couldn't resist noting these passages about the autocratic general Cleon (? - 422 BC) because they seem to presciently forecast a certain politician and even current events in 2024.
Trivia and Link
If you are reading this before the November 19, 2024 release date and can still pre-order the book, you can also register for a free Zoom session with the author on the release date and for promotional materials which will follow via email on November 20, 2024 at the author's substack website here.
A review of the St. Martin's Press Kindle ARC via NetGalley, obtained in advance of the official hardcover/ebook/audiobook (November 19, 2024).
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest philosophy/self-help mashup from author Donald J. Robertson who also works as a Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapist. This current book follows the life of Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates (c470-399 BC) by paraphrasing / retelling his teachings & dialogues from the later writings of his students / followers such as Plato (c428-348 BC) and Xenophon (c430-355 BC).
Socrates in the Modern World. Image sourced from a Grok AI creation.
There are no surviving writings by Socrates himself, so what we have are his so-called Socratic dialogues with various historical characters as later recorded by his followers. Reading the translations of works such as Plato's Apology (Socrates' defense at his trial before his verdict, sentencing and execution for impiety and corruption of youth) and other works can sometimes be pretty hard going (see Project Gutenberg for examples).
Robertson has distilled those thorny tracts into a reader user-friendly life-story which incorporates the then current historical events of the struggles of Greek democracy in the age of Pericles, Alcibiades and the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta and then the later period of the Thirty Tyrants. Periodically there are interludes where the question and answer methods of Socratic dialogue are shown as reflected in the methods of modern behavioral therapy.
My thanks to the author, the publisher St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this preview ARC, in exchange for which I provide this honest review.
Quotes
I know they say that you shouldn't use quotes from advance reading copies, but I just couldn't resist noting these passages about the autocratic general Cleon (? - 422 BC) because they seem to presciently forecast a certain politician and even current events in 2024.
Cleon, a businessman whose wealth came from his family's tannery, emerged as a political outsider, a demagogue who quickly gained popularity by attacking the ruling elite. He evolved into a radical populist, appealing to the lower classes with a distinctive approach in the Assembly, characterized by his cynicism, aggression, and forthrightness.
...
In the aftermath of the plague, as Athens tried to reassert herself, Cleon's rhetoric became more violent, crude, and aggressive, as he attacked his critics rather than refuting them, but most often he carried the Assembly with him. Soon, this kind of outlandish behavior became normalized, and the political climate at Athens degenerated into partisan bickering.
...
Genuine statesmen gave way to demagogues, who stoked the fear and anger of the citizens and pandered to their greed and other vices.
Trivia and Link
If you are reading this before the November 19, 2024 release date and can still pre-order the book, you can also register for a free Zoom session with the author on the release date and for promotional materials which will follow via email on November 20, 2024 at the author's substack website here.
February 13, 2025
Socrates was the founder of philosophy as we know it (as far as we are aware anyway), but also laid down the original methodology for modern psychology. Not a bad legacy for a guy who wrote nothing down and died more than 2400 years ago.
But thank Zeus Almighty someone wrote this stuff down, because it just so happens to be some of the most important knowledge the human race has ever produced. The Socratic method forms the bedrock of critical thinking, necessary for such disciplines as science, medicine, law, engineering, mathematics, psychology (especially cognitive behavior therapy), the social sciences, as well as just plain old clear thinkin’.
The book immerses us in the historical events of Socrates’ time, a brilliant narrative move on the part of the author which brings Socrates and his age to life. And, as it turns out, the political and social issues of the Greeks of the 5th century BC are not so far removed from our own troubles today. Give this a read, and you’ll see what I mean—no spoilers.
It’s an easy read—but don’t take easy to mean superficial. Au contraire, this book takes on the deepest, most important philosophical and psychological issues pertinent to all of us today. And it does so in a way that philosophy noobs as well as those more familiar with it can understand and appreciate. This one gets a spot in my library. Highly recommended. 5 stars.
But thank Zeus Almighty someone wrote this stuff down, because it just so happens to be some of the most important knowledge the human race has ever produced. The Socratic method forms the bedrock of critical thinking, necessary for such disciplines as science, medicine, law, engineering, mathematics, psychology (especially cognitive behavior therapy), the social sciences, as well as just plain old clear thinkin’.
The book immerses us in the historical events of Socrates’ time, a brilliant narrative move on the part of the author which brings Socrates and his age to life. And, as it turns out, the political and social issues of the Greeks of the 5th century BC are not so far removed from our own troubles today. Give this a read, and you’ll see what I mean—no spoilers.
It’s an easy read—but don’t take easy to mean superficial. Au contraire, this book takes on the deepest, most important philosophical and psychological issues pertinent to all of us today. And it does so in a way that philosophy noobs as well as those more familiar with it can understand and appreciate. This one gets a spot in my library. Highly recommended. 5 stars.
September 25, 2024
Socrates, the great philosopher, died in 399 BC. This remarkable book tells the story from his point of view. It starts when he was working for his father, a master sculptor and then continues through his military days and years of teaching.
Socrates was searching for the meaning in life. It took me some time to read through the pages as I would pause to think about some of his questions that could relate to us. What matters most in your life? What did you spend most of your time doing? What qualities do you admire in others? How much good would a million dollars be in your bank account if you are on the verge of passing away.
It’s clear that author is highly knowledgeable about the history and wanted to present it to readers in a way that would be easy to understand. As we know, much over the years has changed. Yet, it may seem oddly familiar with the same type of politics and concerns with fear, anger and corruption by manipulative leaders.
Besides philosophy, Donald J. Robertson included a great deal of the Greek history with the wars and what happened afterward. Critias was one of Socrates' students. He became the leader of the Thirty Tyrants who ruled Athens after the Peloponnesian War.
Was the author trying to tell us something? It’s the story of revenge and how their voting systems were manipulated. When the oligarchs took control, they killed anyone that testified against them during the democracy. They arrested soldiers, their personal enemies, prominent citizens and Democrat leaders. Critias made it illegal to teach the art of argumentation as he wanted to outlaw philosophy. And you can guess what happened next. How do we know this? His student, Plato, wrote everything down.
This book will fill your mind with the how to “know thyself” along with the politics of the time. I was more interested in the philosophy as how it relates to our thinking patterns. It’s definitely a conversation piece of writing. It ends with several pages of references and notes.
My thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of November 19, 2024.
Socrates was searching for the meaning in life. It took me some time to read through the pages as I would pause to think about some of his questions that could relate to us. What matters most in your life? What did you spend most of your time doing? What qualities do you admire in others? How much good would a million dollars be in your bank account if you are on the verge of passing away.
It’s clear that author is highly knowledgeable about the history and wanted to present it to readers in a way that would be easy to understand. As we know, much over the years has changed. Yet, it may seem oddly familiar with the same type of politics and concerns with fear, anger and corruption by manipulative leaders.
Besides philosophy, Donald J. Robertson included a great deal of the Greek history with the wars and what happened afterward. Critias was one of Socrates' students. He became the leader of the Thirty Tyrants who ruled Athens after the Peloponnesian War.
Was the author trying to tell us something? It’s the story of revenge and how their voting systems were manipulated. When the oligarchs took control, they killed anyone that testified against them during the democracy. They arrested soldiers, their personal enemies, prominent citizens and Democrat leaders. Critias made it illegal to teach the art of argumentation as he wanted to outlaw philosophy. And you can guess what happened next. How do we know this? His student, Plato, wrote everything down.
This book will fill your mind with the how to “know thyself” along with the politics of the time. I was more interested in the philosophy as how it relates to our thinking patterns. It’s definitely a conversation piece of writing. It ends with several pages of references and notes.
My thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of November 19, 2024.
January 3, 2025
Some context I didn't know about socrates
Practice:
- First, before forming an opinion, list what you don’t yet understand about the situation. Second, when someone claims expertise, politely ask them to explain their basic assumptions. Finally, make it a daily habit to admit one thing you previously thought you knew but now realize you don’t fully understand.
- Socrates’s greatest insight wasn’t a collection of answers, but a method for asking better questions.
- When someone tells you something is “fair” or “right” or “obvious,” pause and ask for their definition. What exactly do they mean by these words? Often, you’ll find that conflicts arise not from genuine disagreement, but from unclear definitions.
- Living ethically under pressure requires more than good intentions; you need a clear method for testing your choices. When facing difficult decisions, examine your motivations like Socrates did. Ask yourself if you would make the same choice if everyone knew about it. Are you acting from careful thought, or just following the crowd? Could you explain and defend your choice to someone you respect?
Notes:
- In 432 BCE, a stonemason named Socrates walked away from his successful business to serve in the Athenian army in the Peloponnesian War. As a soldier, he became famous for standing barefoot in the snow during battle campaigns, and questioning his fellow soldiers about what truly mattered in life. While others worried about wealth or status, Socrates focused on understanding wisdom itself.
- During Athens’ golden age, most people claimed to have answers about how to live well. Teachers called Sophists charged high fees to teach young men how to win arguments and gain power. But Socrates saw things differently. Through his experiences in war, he learned first-hand that those who claimed to know everything often knew very little, while those who admitted their ignorance were actually ready to learn.
- While others clung to rigid beliefs, Socrates showed how questioning our assumptions leads to better decisions.
- Among Socrates’s most famous students was the young Alcibiades, a handsome and wealthy aristocrat destined for power in Athens. When they first met, Alcibiades boasted about his natural talents and future political career. Instead of lecturing him, Socrates asked simple questions: What makes a good leader? How do you know what’s best for the city? Each answer led to deeper questions, until Alcibiades realized he hadn’t thought carefully about leadership at all.
- In 404 BCE, after losing the Peloponnesian War to Sparta, Athens saw its democracy replaced by a group known as the Thirty Tyrants. Among their leaders was Critias, a former student of Socrates. While many Athenians remained silent out of fear, Socrates continued his public questioning about the nature of justice and good governance.
- In conversations recorded by Plato, we see how Socrates engaged with Critias even before his rise to power. Starting with simple questions about the meaning of temperance and wisdom, he would lead Critias through a series of examples. He asked, Is it just to harm those who have harmed you? And, if justice means giving people what they deserve, how do we know what they truly deserve?
- Through his questioning, Socrates revealed the contradictions between Critias’s claimed principles and his actions as a tyrant. This courage in confronting power would eventually contribute to the charges brought against Socrates years later, when his enemies accused him of corrupting the youth of Athens.
- Even in his seventies, Socrates refused to compromise his principles. In 404 BCE, after Athens fell to Sparta, the newly installed Thirty Tyrants tested the elderly philosopher’s integrity. They ordered him to arrest Leon of Salamis, an innocent man whose wealth they coveted. Following this order would have saved Socrates from trouble and even earned him a share of the stolen fortune. Instead, Socrates walked home.
- In 399 BCE, at age seventy, Socrates stood before 500 Athenian jurors. The charges were vague: corrupting the youth and disrespecting the gods. But the real issue was far deeper. After years of war, plague, and political upheaval, Athens wanted someone to blame for its troubles. Socrates, with his persistent questions and refusal to embrace comfortable lies, became the perfect target.
- Ironically, Socrates’s execution spread his ideas farther than his teaching ever had. His students, especially Plato, ensured his methods lived on. Today, whenever people gather to examine their beliefs carefully, ask probing questions, or stand firm for truth despite pressure to conform, they’re drawing from Socrates’s legacy.
Practice:
- First, before forming an opinion, list what you don’t yet understand about the situation. Second, when someone claims expertise, politely ask them to explain their basic assumptions. Finally, make it a daily habit to admit one thing you previously thought you knew but now realize you don’t fully understand.
- Socrates’s greatest insight wasn’t a collection of answers, but a method for asking better questions.
- When someone tells you something is “fair” or “right” or “obvious,” pause and ask for their definition. What exactly do they mean by these words? Often, you’ll find that conflicts arise not from genuine disagreement, but from unclear definitions.
- Living ethically under pressure requires more than good intentions; you need a clear method for testing your choices. When facing difficult decisions, examine your motivations like Socrates did. Ask yourself if you would make the same choice if everyone knew about it. Are you acting from careful thought, or just following the crowd? Could you explain and defend your choice to someone you respect?
Notes:
- In 432 BCE, a stonemason named Socrates walked away from his successful business to serve in the Athenian army in the Peloponnesian War. As a soldier, he became famous for standing barefoot in the snow during battle campaigns, and questioning his fellow soldiers about what truly mattered in life. While others worried about wealth or status, Socrates focused on understanding wisdom itself.
- During Athens’ golden age, most people claimed to have answers about how to live well. Teachers called Sophists charged high fees to teach young men how to win arguments and gain power. But Socrates saw things differently. Through his experiences in war, he learned first-hand that those who claimed to know everything often knew very little, while those who admitted their ignorance were actually ready to learn.
- While others clung to rigid beliefs, Socrates showed how questioning our assumptions leads to better decisions.
- Among Socrates’s most famous students was the young Alcibiades, a handsome and wealthy aristocrat destined for power in Athens. When they first met, Alcibiades boasted about his natural talents and future political career. Instead of lecturing him, Socrates asked simple questions: What makes a good leader? How do you know what’s best for the city? Each answer led to deeper questions, until Alcibiades realized he hadn’t thought carefully about leadership at all.
- In 404 BCE, after losing the Peloponnesian War to Sparta, Athens saw its democracy replaced by a group known as the Thirty Tyrants. Among their leaders was Critias, a former student of Socrates. While many Athenians remained silent out of fear, Socrates continued his public questioning about the nature of justice and good governance.
- In conversations recorded by Plato, we see how Socrates engaged with Critias even before his rise to power. Starting with simple questions about the meaning of temperance and wisdom, he would lead Critias through a series of examples. He asked, Is it just to harm those who have harmed you? And, if justice means giving people what they deserve, how do we know what they truly deserve?
- Through his questioning, Socrates revealed the contradictions between Critias’s claimed principles and his actions as a tyrant. This courage in confronting power would eventually contribute to the charges brought against Socrates years later, when his enemies accused him of corrupting the youth of Athens.
- Even in his seventies, Socrates refused to compromise his principles. In 404 BCE, after Athens fell to Sparta, the newly installed Thirty Tyrants tested the elderly philosopher’s integrity. They ordered him to arrest Leon of Salamis, an innocent man whose wealth they coveted. Following this order would have saved Socrates from trouble and even earned him a share of the stolen fortune. Instead, Socrates walked home.
- In 399 BCE, at age seventy, Socrates stood before 500 Athenian jurors. The charges were vague: corrupting the youth and disrespecting the gods. But the real issue was far deeper. After years of war, plague, and political upheaval, Athens wanted someone to blame for its troubles. Socrates, with his persistent questions and refusal to embrace comfortable lies, became the perfect target.
- Ironically, Socrates’s execution spread his ideas farther than his teaching ever had. His students, especially Plato, ensured his methods lived on. Today, whenever people gather to examine their beliefs carefully, ask probing questions, or stand firm for truth despite pressure to conform, they’re drawing from Socrates’s legacy.
January 7, 2025
Timeless Wisdom Applied to Contemporary Audiences
In his most recent work, Donald J. Robertson weaves theoretical dialogues [the author explains "theoretical" in the introduction.] between Socrates and his contemporaries in the context of the Peloponnesian Wars and explains Socrates's love of philosophy and search for wisdom as it applies to modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through this modern retelling, Robertson explores themes of love, wisdom, justice, and anger.
His commentary regarding the difference between philosophers' search for wisdom and justice vs. the exploitative rhetorical oratory of the political elite--through the imagined dialogues of Socrates--applies as much to the political environment of the 21st century and the power of online influencers of today as it did to oligarchs and the 30 Tyrants of the 5th century BCE.
Robertson also discusses the importance of the Delphic inscription "Know Thyself" and the dangers involved when we fail to recognize that we do not know the things we profess to know. He also explores the role of cognitive flexibility in wisdom when it challenges us to revise our previously held beliefs and biases.
Probably the most useful comparison made through the imagined words of Socrates was that of political orators to confectioners. Just as confectioners pander to their customers by providing the sweetest treats without regard to their health impacts, some orators seek only to gratify the immediate feelings of the mob with little focus on the actual impact of a particular course of action. Even more unsettling was the glee with which the Sophists explained how a strong orator--even one with no expertise in a particular area--can quickly discredit an actual expert in that field merely through clever use of rhetoric.
As for the self-improvement aspects of the book, Robertson discusses various cognitive biases that negatively influence our emotions while providing a variety of CBT-based techniques to help create cognitive distance and an opportunity to examine why we might feel negative emotions like anger and fear.
In his most recent work, Donald J. Robertson weaves theoretical dialogues [the author explains "theoretical" in the introduction.] between Socrates and his contemporaries in the context of the Peloponnesian Wars and explains Socrates's love of philosophy and search for wisdom as it applies to modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through this modern retelling, Robertson explores themes of love, wisdom, justice, and anger.
His commentary regarding the difference between philosophers' search for wisdom and justice vs. the exploitative rhetorical oratory of the political elite--through the imagined dialogues of Socrates--applies as much to the political environment of the 21st century and the power of online influencers of today as it did to oligarchs and the 30 Tyrants of the 5th century BCE.
Robertson also discusses the importance of the Delphic inscription "Know Thyself" and the dangers involved when we fail to recognize that we do not know the things we profess to know. He also explores the role of cognitive flexibility in wisdom when it challenges us to revise our previously held beliefs and biases.
Probably the most useful comparison made through the imagined words of Socrates was that of political orators to confectioners. Just as confectioners pander to their customers by providing the sweetest treats without regard to their health impacts, some orators seek only to gratify the immediate feelings of the mob with little focus on the actual impact of a particular course of action. Even more unsettling was the glee with which the Sophists explained how a strong orator--even one with no expertise in a particular area--can quickly discredit an actual expert in that field merely through clever use of rhetoric.
As for the self-improvement aspects of the book, Robertson discusses various cognitive biases that negatively influence our emotions while providing a variety of CBT-based techniques to help create cognitive distance and an opportunity to examine why we might feel negative emotions like anger and fear.
September 27, 2024
This book was such an enjoyable read. Right now, my kids are arguing on who's gonna read it first. Thanks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2025
This is a wonderful book. It almost feels as if the author was writing with me in mind. How to Think Like Socrates is, at its heart, a book about applying philosophy to psychology. Donald J. Robertson is interested in using the philosophical teachings and life story of Socrates to instruct people on how to live a good life. He provides a fictionalized biography of Socrates with retellings of many of his dialogues, incorporating psychological insights in each chapter. Cognitive theory and cognitive behavioral therapy owe much to ancient Greek philosophy, including teachings attributed to Socrates by authors such as Plato. By using stories, Robertson grounds theories in reality and makes them applicable to our daily lives. In the ancient world, philosophy was intended to guide human beings on a practical level, whereas nowadays it is primarily an academic exercise. Robertson brings us back to the basics. There is much in How to Think Like Socrates that I want to incorporate into my therapeutic practice.
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[Image: Book Cover]
Citation:
Robertson, D.J. (2024). How to think like Socrates: Ancient philosophy as a way of life in the modern world (Kindle Edition). St. Martin's Press. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C...
Title: How to Think Like Socrates: Ancient Philosophy as a Way of Life in the Modern World
Author(s): Donald J. Robertson
Year: 2024
Genre: Nonfiction - Philosophy, Psychology
Page count: 344 pages
Date(s) read: 8/3/25 - 8/7/25
Book 161 in 2025
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***************************************************************************
[Image: Book Cover]
Citation:
Robertson, D.J. (2024). How to think like Socrates: Ancient philosophy as a way of life in the modern world (Kindle Edition). St. Martin's Press. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C...
Title: How to Think Like Socrates: Ancient Philosophy as a Way of Life in the Modern World
Author(s): Donald J. Robertson
Year: 2024
Genre: Nonfiction - Philosophy, Psychology
Page count: 344 pages
Date(s) read: 8/3/25 - 8/7/25
Book 161 in 2025
***************************************************************************
December 7, 2024
I loved this book. It brings Socratic philosophy to life in a way that’s easy to follow and deeply thought-provoking. The dialogue between Socrates and Aspasia about love stood out to me the most. It expressed ideas I’ve had myself but never seen put into words so clearly.
The book is written in a smooth, engaging style. It’s full of wisdom, yet it’s easy to read and understand. I also liked the tip about reading it out loud—it really made the ideas come alive, almost like Socrates was speaking to me directly.
This book helped me see philosophy not just as something to read about but as a guide for thinking and living better. I’d recommend it to anyone who’s curious about Socrates or how to think more deeply about life.
The book is written in a smooth, engaging style. It’s full of wisdom, yet it’s easy to read and understand. I also liked the tip about reading it out loud—it really made the ideas come alive, almost like Socrates was speaking to me directly.
This book helped me see philosophy not just as something to read about but as a guide for thinking and living better. I’d recommend it to anyone who’s curious about Socrates or how to think more deeply about life.
January 27, 2025
I don't think it's a must read, but I think it's a great read. I found it very, very entertaining and super informative.
This is critical thinking 101: I don't think it's that hard to do, I just think it's upsetting for a lot of people to do.
The author laid everything out so beautifully using a semi-historical narrative of Socrates's life. And in key moments, he would elucidate something about Socrates philosophy, as demonstrated by the dialogues he would have with key people in his life. In each of those, the author then ties that key philosophical piece to something in modern psychology, which then critiques the conclusions one might draw from reading other self-help books.
He gives you, with all that connection, a tool to sift through all the information that you receive from the world around you, and even the information that you generate within yourself. Because they do say that it's easier to critique somebody else's ideas or thoughts than it is to critique your own.
It's basically talking about yourself in the third person, as if you're talking about someone else’s ideas, to critique your own ideas.
That I think is easy.
Anyone could do that.
But I don't think that that's something innate. You should be able to hear your own thoughts come out somebody else's mouth, then critique them, and then think differently.
I don't think that that's impossible, but it is difficult
A lot of the conflict and tension in this narrative comes when Socrates tries to undermine other people's thoughts. By just asking the questions that they have to conclude is some kind of exception to the ideas that they are trying to espouse.
Like what is justice?
What is truth?
What is good?
What is bad?
What is wrong?
He seems very concerned about virtues like that.
And those that claimed to be wise were the ones that were most resistant to Socrates. Because in order to actually undermine what they are trying to say, they’d have to concede that somebody else is wiser than they are.
That is an issue for the sophists back then, and the sophists now. Those people, which are all around us constantly, cannot critique their own thoughts.
Perhaps critical thinking is very difficult for them.
Not impossible, because if you have the tools, you would be able to.
This book is great. I would not say it must read though, because it's just critical thinking 101. But for those that really could use some sharpening of their logic skills, I think it's fantastic.
I don't think I've ever really given many self help books like low scores because if the tips don’t work, it’s your own fault. So this one gets a high score for me. It's a five out of five, with the beautiful narrative and the prose with which it was done, and the narrator for the audio book was a perfect cast.
It was great.
This is critical thinking 101: I don't think it's that hard to do, I just think it's upsetting for a lot of people to do.
The author laid everything out so beautifully using a semi-historical narrative of Socrates's life. And in key moments, he would elucidate something about Socrates philosophy, as demonstrated by the dialogues he would have with key people in his life. In each of those, the author then ties that key philosophical piece to something in modern psychology, which then critiques the conclusions one might draw from reading other self-help books.
He gives you, with all that connection, a tool to sift through all the information that you receive from the world around you, and even the information that you generate within yourself. Because they do say that it's easier to critique somebody else's ideas or thoughts than it is to critique your own.
It's basically talking about yourself in the third person, as if you're talking about someone else’s ideas, to critique your own ideas.
That I think is easy.
Anyone could do that.
But I don't think that that's something innate. You should be able to hear your own thoughts come out somebody else's mouth, then critique them, and then think differently.
I don't think that that's impossible, but it is difficult
A lot of the conflict and tension in this narrative comes when Socrates tries to undermine other people's thoughts. By just asking the questions that they have to conclude is some kind of exception to the ideas that they are trying to espouse.
Like what is justice?
What is truth?
What is good?
What is bad?
What is wrong?
He seems very concerned about virtues like that.
And those that claimed to be wise were the ones that were most resistant to Socrates. Because in order to actually undermine what they are trying to say, they’d have to concede that somebody else is wiser than they are.
That is an issue for the sophists back then, and the sophists now. Those people, which are all around us constantly, cannot critique their own thoughts.
Perhaps critical thinking is very difficult for them.
Not impossible, because if you have the tools, you would be able to.
This book is great. I would not say it must read though, because it's just critical thinking 101. But for those that really could use some sharpening of their logic skills, I think it's fantastic.
I don't think I've ever really given many self help books like low scores because if the tips don’t work, it’s your own fault. So this one gets a high score for me. It's a five out of five, with the beautiful narrative and the prose with which it was done, and the narrator for the audio book was a perfect cast.
It was great.
July 1, 2024
Another excellent book by this author that effortlessly mixes history, philosophy, and psychology to create an informative and thought-provoking read. This time we are exploring the teachings of Socrates and how to apply them to our daily lives. The author intertwines the history and events of the time period with imagined conversations between Socrates and the people around him, creating both historical context and a more personal approach to each theme discussed. Each chapter then includes a section that teaches us the importance of using Socratic questioning in establishing what our own values are and gaining wisdom and clarity around our emotions.
This book will show you the value of questioning not only all the noise leveled against us on social media but also our own snap assumptions or deeply held judgments. Practicing deep reflection and things like cognitive distancing helps us dig down to what is actually true and meaningful, rather than what feels true in the moment because of an emotional knee jerk or because someone on the internet said so. As someone who suffers with anxiety, I find these kinds of reflective activities to be enormously helpful.
This book will show you the value of questioning not only all the noise leveled against us on social media but also our own snap assumptions or deeply held judgments. Practicing deep reflection and things like cognitive distancing helps us dig down to what is actually true and meaningful, rather than what feels true in the moment because of an emotional knee jerk or because someone on the internet said so. As someone who suffers with anxiety, I find these kinds of reflective activities to be enormously helpful.
January 8, 2025
"How to Think Like Socrates" by Donald Robertson offers a unique blend of ancient philosophy and modern application. It explores the life and teachings of Socrates, emphasizing his Socratic method of inquiry: questioning assumptions, examining beliefs, and pursuing truth through dialogue.
Key Strengths:
* Accessibility: Robertson presents complex philosophical concepts in a clear and engaging manner, making them accessible to readers without prior knowledge.
* Practical Application: The book goes beyond academic theory, demonstrating how Socratic principles can be applied to everyday life, such as improving critical thinking, navigating difficult conversations, and achieving personal growth.
* Engaging Narrative: Robertson weaves historical context and anecdotes into the narrative, bringing the life and times of Socrates to life for the reader.
Robertson makes the connections between Socrates' cognitive techniques and modern cognitive behavioral therapy. His explanations add depth to our current understanding and give practical application for a modern audience. It is in these explanations that the book pays off on the promise of is title.
Key Strengths:
* Accessibility: Robertson presents complex philosophical concepts in a clear and engaging manner, making them accessible to readers without prior knowledge.
* Practical Application: The book goes beyond academic theory, demonstrating how Socratic principles can be applied to everyday life, such as improving critical thinking, navigating difficult conversations, and achieving personal growth.
* Engaging Narrative: Robertson weaves historical context and anecdotes into the narrative, bringing the life and times of Socrates to life for the reader.
Robertson makes the connections between Socrates' cognitive techniques and modern cognitive behavioral therapy. His explanations add depth to our current understanding and give practical application for a modern audience. It is in these explanations that the book pays off on the promise of is title.
November 15, 2024
this was soooo good !!! i got this as an arch and im so glad!!! ive been putting this off since july but im so glad i picked it up bc this is one of my fav books so far. LOVEEE
November 19, 2024
This is a great book about Socrates and his way of thinking. It took my quite a long time to read this but it sure made me think.
I did receive a copy of the book for an honest review.
I did receive a copy of the book for an honest review.
November 26, 2024
Roberson’s text “contains a dramatized and semi-fictional account of the life of Socrates designed to make his thought more accessible while also highlighting connections with modern psychology.” As a cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist, the author wants readers to access the tools within themselves by emulating the questioning techniques Socrates engaged in with his students. Rather than seeking the advice of self-help books, Robertson asserts that it is better to “use reason to actively problem solve and evaluate different strategies rather than depend on other people for stock advice.” As a result, this “can lead us toward freedom and genuine fulfillment.”
The relaxed approach of Robertson’s book made me feel as though I were listening to Socrates’ conversations with Plato, Pericles, Pythagoras, Aspasia, Alcibiades, and many others. The author’s own voice as narrator allowed an enjoyable listening experience.
I once had a graduate writing professor who had us write,“Yes, but why?” after every paragraph. While it was incredibly frustrating and time-consuming, this self-reflective activity improved my writing more than anything a professor could have written on a paper or commented to me. I think this type of questioning introspection is what Robertson is encouraging.
The analogy that “rhetoric is to the mind…as confectionary is to the body” helped me better understand the difference between rhetoric and philosophy.
I would love to listen to a conversation with Donald Robertson and Jay Heinrichs!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an audio version of this title for an honest review.
The relaxed approach of Robertson’s book made me feel as though I were listening to Socrates’ conversations with Plato, Pericles, Pythagoras, Aspasia, Alcibiades, and many others. The author’s own voice as narrator allowed an enjoyable listening experience.
I once had a graduate writing professor who had us write,“Yes, but why?” after every paragraph. While it was incredibly frustrating and time-consuming, this self-reflective activity improved my writing more than anything a professor could have written on a paper or commented to me. I think this type of questioning introspection is what Robertson is encouraging.
The analogy that “rhetoric is to the mind…as confectionary is to the body” helped me better understand the difference between rhetoric and philosophy.
I would love to listen to a conversation with Donald Robertson and Jay Heinrichs!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an audio version of this title for an honest review.
February 24, 2025
Loved this way more than I expected. The way the author weaves the dialogues through an overview of the period while filling in blanks is really well done.
January 21, 2025
A down to earth understanding of Socrates
Socrates' life and dialogues, painstakingly researched and fleshed out with a sprinkling of creative license and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in a narrative designed for comprehension by the modern non-academic. As enjoyable as it was informative.
Socrates' life and dialogues, painstakingly researched and fleshed out with a sprinkling of creative license and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in a narrative designed for comprehension by the modern non-academic. As enjoyable as it was informative.
March 2, 2025
Very readable
February 15, 2025
It is an engaging and practical guide to applying Socratic thinking in everyday life. I liked it because it uses anecdotes to convey philosophical insights, making complex ideas easy to grasp and apply. Thought-provoking and well-written, it’s a great read for sharpening reasoning skills. I really enjoyed it
October 28, 2024
I was given a digital copy of this book by the publisher as part of an interview I did with Donald for a podcast I host at work.
Donald’s earlier book, How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, has always been my go-to recommendation for anyone interested in learning about Stoicism or philosophy in general—until now. In my opinion, Donald’s latest book improves on this already fantastic book and surpasses his previous one in several ways.
The structure is similar, blending historical stories about its subject (Socrates, in this case) with philosophical lessons. I’m a big fan of this approach, and I think it works really well. I’ve read that we tend to learn and remember things better when they’re shared through stories, and while I’m not sure how accurate that is, it definitely feels true here.
With the growing interest in Stoicism and Western philosophy over the past decade, we’ve seen a lot of new books on the topic. While some are great, others seem more focused on using Stoicism for things like business negotiations, which doesn’t always align with the true purpose of the philosophy. That’s not the case with Donald’s work—his knowledge and respect for the original teachings really stand out, yet still demonstrating how it may apply to life in the modern world.
There’s also a wide range of books out there in terms of complexity. Some are perfect for beginners, while others assume you already know quite a bit. Donald’s latest book strikes a nice balance, offering something for both newcomers and those more familiar with the topic. Even though I’ve read quite a bit about Socrates and his teachings, I came across plenty of stories and examples in this book that were new to me.
Overall, this is a book I’m looking forward to re-reading once my physical copy arrives, and one I’ll definitely keep recommending to anyone interested in learning more about Socrates or Western philosophy in general. It’s an easy 5/5 from me.
Donald’s earlier book, How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, has always been my go-to recommendation for anyone interested in learning about Stoicism or philosophy in general—until now. In my opinion, Donald’s latest book improves on this already fantastic book and surpasses his previous one in several ways.
The structure is similar, blending historical stories about its subject (Socrates, in this case) with philosophical lessons. I’m a big fan of this approach, and I think it works really well. I’ve read that we tend to learn and remember things better when they’re shared through stories, and while I’m not sure how accurate that is, it definitely feels true here.
With the growing interest in Stoicism and Western philosophy over the past decade, we’ve seen a lot of new books on the topic. While some are great, others seem more focused on using Stoicism for things like business negotiations, which doesn’t always align with the true purpose of the philosophy. That’s not the case with Donald’s work—his knowledge and respect for the original teachings really stand out, yet still demonstrating how it may apply to life in the modern world.
There’s also a wide range of books out there in terms of complexity. Some are perfect for beginners, while others assume you already know quite a bit. Donald’s latest book strikes a nice balance, offering something for both newcomers and those more familiar with the topic. Even though I’ve read quite a bit about Socrates and his teachings, I came across plenty of stories and examples in this book that were new to me.
Overall, this is a book I’m looking forward to re-reading once my physical copy arrives, and one I’ll definitely keep recommending to anyone interested in learning more about Socrates or Western philosophy in general. It’s an easy 5/5 from me.
December 29, 2024
I cannot put into words how much I disliked this book. In 99% of situations, I would have stopped reading this book halfway through and cut my losses, but for some reason I just kept reading this one. Before I lay out my issues with this book, I will say that I think most people who enjoy learning about history will like this book. I just feel like this was a big bait and switch, and I didn’t get what I was sold.
I’m a massive fan of the Socratic method, and I love learning about Socrates and how he asked questions. Based on the title of this book, you’d think that’s what this was about. The book is a sort of biography of Socrates, and in the beginning, there’s a lot sprinkled in about how Socrates operated and what we can learn about his methods. As the book goes on, it turns to even more of a biography and less analysis and lessons from this “way of life” like it says in the title. What’s worse is that about halfway through, it doesn’t even talk about Socrates as much as it does about some of his students.
I’m not a fan of biographies and I’m not a fan of history books, so again, I think people who are into that stuff may love this book. But I doubt those people will even come across this book because that’s not how the title or synopsis is framed. I feel like I was tricked into reading some of my least favorite non-fiction genres and wasted a whole lot of time. But if you want to learn about the Roman empire during the time of Socrates, you may enjoy this book. As for me, I really wish I had spent my time reading something else.
I’m a massive fan of the Socratic method, and I love learning about Socrates and how he asked questions. Based on the title of this book, you’d think that’s what this was about. The book is a sort of biography of Socrates, and in the beginning, there’s a lot sprinkled in about how Socrates operated and what we can learn about his methods. As the book goes on, it turns to even more of a biography and less analysis and lessons from this “way of life” like it says in the title. What’s worse is that about halfway through, it doesn’t even talk about Socrates as much as it does about some of his students.
I’m not a fan of biographies and I’m not a fan of history books, so again, I think people who are into that stuff may love this book. But I doubt those people will even come across this book because that’s not how the title or synopsis is framed. I feel like I was tricked into reading some of my least favorite non-fiction genres and wasted a whole lot of time. But if you want to learn about the Roman empire during the time of Socrates, you may enjoy this book. As for me, I really wish I had spent my time reading something else.
December 2, 2024
There are so many things to like about this delightful book. Much like his excellent text, How to Think like a Roman Emperor, Robertson’s Socrates book does it all.
I have spent the year studying philosophy. I feel I have a much better understanding of Socrates’ dialogues after reading this book. Then from other historic texts.
Robertson is such an incredible writer. I feel like I’m in the room with these historical figures.
I hesitate to call this a self help book, but the reader will learn cognitive strategies to improve their thinking and processing.
Sections of the book are meditative. That is what make the audible edition so special.
Bravo Donald Robertson on another winner!
I have spent the year studying philosophy. I feel I have a much better understanding of Socrates’ dialogues after reading this book. Then from other historic texts.
Robertson is such an incredible writer. I feel like I’m in the room with these historical figures.
I hesitate to call this a self help book, but the reader will learn cognitive strategies to improve their thinking and processing.
Sections of the book are meditative. That is what make the audible edition so special.
Bravo Donald Robertson on another winner!
June 23, 2025
4.5
I enjoyed this book very much. This was the first book from Donald J. Robertson I read and I enjoyed it. Reading it as a psychology major in addition to working through personal stuff made this book extra interesting and enjoyable for me. My only complaint is the story before the application, the stories of Socrates at times made it difficult for me to follow through but completely understand the reason they needed to better.
I highly recommend this book and am gonna be picking up How to Think Like a Roman Emperor!
I enjoyed this book very much. This was the first book from Donald J. Robertson I read and I enjoyed it. Reading it as a psychology major in addition to working through personal stuff made this book extra interesting and enjoyable for me. My only complaint is the story before the application, the stories of Socrates at times made it difficult for me to follow through but completely understand the reason they needed to better.
I highly recommend this book and am gonna be picking up How to Think Like a Roman Emperor!
December 26, 2024
Nowadays critical thinking often takes a backseat to quick opinions and surface-level discourse, "How to Think Like Socrates" arrives as a timely reminder of philosophy's practical power. This masterfully crafted work does more than simply recount ancient wisdom—it demonstrates how Socratic thought can transform our approach to modern challenges, from personal relationships to public discourse.
Robertson's narrative weaves together three essential strands: historical context, philosophical analysis, and practical application. He reconstructs the intellectual atmosphere of 5th century BCE Athens, helping readers understand how the city's democratic experiments and cultural upheavals shaped Socrates' methods. This historical grounding makes the philosophy feel alive and relevant, rather than merely academic.
One of the book's most valuable contributions is how it resolves a long-standing puzzle about Socrates' character. I have struggled to reconcile Socrates' reputation for wisdom with accounts of him leaving people feeling diminished and hostile after their encounters. Robertson skillfully addresses this apparent contradiction by providing crucial historical and social context, showing how Socrates' methods, while confrontational by modern standards, were shaped by the competitive intellectual culture of ancient Athens. The author helps us understand that what might seem like needlessly antagonistic behaviour to modern readers had a specific pedagogical purpose in its original context, though this doesn't entirely absolve Socrates of his sometimes harsh approach.
The book's most illuminating contribution comes through its exploration of Aspasia's influence on Socratic thought. Robertson challenges traditional narratives by revealing how this remarkable woman—a foreign-born intellectual in male-dominated Athens—helped shape Socrates' fundamental ideas. Through careful analysis of ancient sources, he shows how Aspasia's expertise in rhetoric and her innovative teaching methods influenced Socrates' approach to dialogue. However, readers hoping for a deeper exploration of Aspasia's life and other interactions with Socrates may feel disappointed. The brevity of this section leaves many questions unanswered about her other philosophical contributions and later influence, reflecting perhaps the limited historical records available rather than any oversight by the author.
Robertson excels at demonstrating the practical applications of Socratic methods. He shows how the philosopher's approach to negative definition—defining what something is not to better understand what it is—can help readers clarify their own values and beliefs. The book provides concrete examples of how this method can be applied to modern ethical dilemmas and personal decision-making, making ancient wisdom immediately applicable to contemporary life.
His treatment of Socrates' trial and death transcends mere historical retelling. Robertson uses these events to explore deeper themes about intellectual integrity and moral courage, showing how Socrates' unwavering commitment to truth-seeking offers lessons for navigating our own ethical challenges. The relationship between Socrates and Alcibiades serves as a compelling case study in the complexities of mentorship and the challenges of teaching virtue.
One question that lingers, however, is Socrates' notable absence from public office. While Robertson touches on this aspect of Socrates' life, readers might wish for a more thorough examination of why someone so deeply concerned with civic virtue and good governance chose to remain outside formal political structures. This decision seems particularly intriguing given Athens' democratic system and Socrates' evident interest in political matters.
Where the book truly shines is in its examination of the Delphic maxim "Know Thyself." Robertson unpacks this seemingly simple phrase to reveal its profound implications for personal growth and ethical development. He shows how self-knowledge, in the Socratic sense, involves not just introspection but active engagement with others through dialogue—a particularly relevant message for our increasingly isolated modern world.
However, readers seeking a purely historical biography might find Robertson's frequent connections to modern applications somewhat distracting. Additionally, some might wish for more detailed examination of Socrates' metaphysical views, though this omission aligns with the book's practical focus.
Despite these minor limitations, "How to Think Like Socrates" succeeds brilliantly in its central aim: demonstrating the enduring relevance of Socratic wisdom. Robertson has created an invaluable guide for anyone seeking to develop clearer thinking, more meaningful dialogue, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others. In an era of echo chambers and partisan divides, this book offers tools for the kind of thoughtful, honest discourse our society desperately needs.
Robertson's narrative weaves together three essential strands: historical context, philosophical analysis, and practical application. He reconstructs the intellectual atmosphere of 5th century BCE Athens, helping readers understand how the city's democratic experiments and cultural upheavals shaped Socrates' methods. This historical grounding makes the philosophy feel alive and relevant, rather than merely academic.
One of the book's most valuable contributions is how it resolves a long-standing puzzle about Socrates' character. I have struggled to reconcile Socrates' reputation for wisdom with accounts of him leaving people feeling diminished and hostile after their encounters. Robertson skillfully addresses this apparent contradiction by providing crucial historical and social context, showing how Socrates' methods, while confrontational by modern standards, were shaped by the competitive intellectual culture of ancient Athens. The author helps us understand that what might seem like needlessly antagonistic behaviour to modern readers had a specific pedagogical purpose in its original context, though this doesn't entirely absolve Socrates of his sometimes harsh approach.
The book's most illuminating contribution comes through its exploration of Aspasia's influence on Socratic thought. Robertson challenges traditional narratives by revealing how this remarkable woman—a foreign-born intellectual in male-dominated Athens—helped shape Socrates' fundamental ideas. Through careful analysis of ancient sources, he shows how Aspasia's expertise in rhetoric and her innovative teaching methods influenced Socrates' approach to dialogue. However, readers hoping for a deeper exploration of Aspasia's life and other interactions with Socrates may feel disappointed. The brevity of this section leaves many questions unanswered about her other philosophical contributions and later influence, reflecting perhaps the limited historical records available rather than any oversight by the author.
Robertson excels at demonstrating the practical applications of Socratic methods. He shows how the philosopher's approach to negative definition—defining what something is not to better understand what it is—can help readers clarify their own values and beliefs. The book provides concrete examples of how this method can be applied to modern ethical dilemmas and personal decision-making, making ancient wisdom immediately applicable to contemporary life.
His treatment of Socrates' trial and death transcends mere historical retelling. Robertson uses these events to explore deeper themes about intellectual integrity and moral courage, showing how Socrates' unwavering commitment to truth-seeking offers lessons for navigating our own ethical challenges. The relationship between Socrates and Alcibiades serves as a compelling case study in the complexities of mentorship and the challenges of teaching virtue.
One question that lingers, however, is Socrates' notable absence from public office. While Robertson touches on this aspect of Socrates' life, readers might wish for a more thorough examination of why someone so deeply concerned with civic virtue and good governance chose to remain outside formal political structures. This decision seems particularly intriguing given Athens' democratic system and Socrates' evident interest in political matters.
Where the book truly shines is in its examination of the Delphic maxim "Know Thyself." Robertson unpacks this seemingly simple phrase to reveal its profound implications for personal growth and ethical development. He shows how self-knowledge, in the Socratic sense, involves not just introspection but active engagement with others through dialogue—a particularly relevant message for our increasingly isolated modern world.
However, readers seeking a purely historical biography might find Robertson's frequent connections to modern applications somewhat distracting. Additionally, some might wish for more detailed examination of Socrates' metaphysical views, though this omission aligns with the book's practical focus.
Despite these minor limitations, "How to Think Like Socrates" succeeds brilliantly in its central aim: demonstrating the enduring relevance of Socratic wisdom. Robertson has created an invaluable guide for anyone seeking to develop clearer thinking, more meaningful dialogue, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others. In an era of echo chambers and partisan divides, this book offers tools for the kind of thoughtful, honest discourse our society desperately needs.
September 24, 2025
I think this should have more appropriately be titled: "Socrates' time in Athens". It is more a biography than a lesson on Socratic questioning and thinking. Quite readable. Sometimes a bit dry.
This is not to say you don't learn about Socratic questioning in this book. You can. there are several examples of Socrates performing Socratic questioning. It's just not a "step 1, step 2, step 3" kind of instruction.
This book is best read as part of an overall study of philosophy and not as a stand-alone book. As it's a glimpse into the history of Athens and the Peloponnesian War, it's is also a catalyst to seeking out more detailed histories of the period.
Finally, the coolest thing of this book was Seeing Socrates at different stages of his life. For myself, and I suspect others, we have experienced Socrates as a philosopher who is an old man, who drinks hemlock and dies in support of his beliefs as a philosopher. Through this book you see Socrates in his Mid-30's. You learn that he was a soldier in the Athenian army and apparently quite good too! It added a whole new dimension to Socrates for me.
This is not to say you don't learn about Socratic questioning in this book. You can. there are several examples of Socrates performing Socratic questioning. It's just not a "step 1, step 2, step 3" kind of instruction.
This book is best read as part of an overall study of philosophy and not as a stand-alone book. As it's a glimpse into the history of Athens and the Peloponnesian War, it's is also a catalyst to seeking out more detailed histories of the period.
Finally, the coolest thing of this book was Seeing Socrates at different stages of his life. For myself, and I suspect others, we have experienced Socrates as a philosopher who is an old man, who drinks hemlock and dies in support of his beliefs as a philosopher. Through this book you see Socrates in his Mid-30's. You learn that he was a soldier in the Athenian army and apparently quite good too! It added a whole new dimension to Socrates for me.
April 5, 2025
(sigh)
In this journey of life, I have looked for a great many ways of guidance, or something to gauge decisions and behaviors on. All I can't speak for the author, Socrates represented come out the more I read about him, that guide. The entire book was phenomenal but the last chapter, Swan Song, was probably the most impactful. I suppose I would have been one of those people surrounding Socrates that was crying and smiling at the same time.
But what are we to do?
It's a very interesting that in my lifetime the stoic philosophy has taken a hold so urgently because that's exactly what we need right now. More people like Socrates. Well I am no Donald robertson, I am certainly happy to be one of the people on the same path.
In this journey of life, I have looked for a great many ways of guidance, or something to gauge decisions and behaviors on. All I can't speak for the author, Socrates represented come out the more I read about him, that guide. The entire book was phenomenal but the last chapter, Swan Song, was probably the most impactful. I suppose I would have been one of those people surrounding Socrates that was crying and smiling at the same time.
But what are we to do?
It's a very interesting that in my lifetime the stoic philosophy has taken a hold so urgently because that's exactly what we need right now. More people like Socrates. Well I am no Donald robertson, I am certainly happy to be one of the people on the same path.
January 28, 2025
Wonderful read and insightful on the wisdom of Socrates.
For more info on this book, check out my Sub stack where I do in depth book summaries.
Read Part I here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
Read Part II here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
Read Part III here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
Read Part IV here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
For more info on this book, check out my Sub stack where I do in depth book summaries.
Read Part I here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
Read Part II here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
Read Part III here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
Read Part IV here:
https://modernbookclub.substack.com/p...
June 12, 2025
I read this book because in the 46th year of my life, I suddenly felt like I needed to improve the way I think, to critically assess my thoughts and how I react to issues around me. It was mainly a means of coping with work stress. So I went down the path of learning about Stoicism, I am grateful that Ryan Holiday had recommended this book. I had first attempted to read Socrates' Dualogues directly, but I did sometimes find myself getting lost. This books helps demystify Socrates and contextualising his teaching into actionable insights that we can follow to think critically and to examine ourselves.
It has also sparked an interest in CBT for me. The best books are truly the ones that generate curiosity and further learning and lead you down pathways of acquiring new knowledge.
It has also sparked an interest in CBT for me. The best books are truly the ones that generate curiosity and further learning and lead you down pathways of acquiring new knowledge.
November 20, 2024
I was lucky enough to get an advance reader copy of this fantastic book. I'm a beginner when it comes to Socrates, and this was the perfect way to learn about his life, his teachings and his times. Thoroughly researched, masterfully written, and a great blend of philosophy, biography and history.
March 19, 2025
Donald J. Robertson does such a great job in this book of putting together what we know of both the real Socrates and the fictionalized Socrates of Plato and Xenophon's dialogues, combining it with a thrilling history of the Peloponnesian War, and distilling out lessons of philosophy, cognitive behavioral techniques, and modern-day applications. I highly recommend this book.
May 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. As complete philosophy noob and more interested in the psychology/development side of things, I found the story telling interesting. I loved how the author linked back to the Socratic method’s influence on CBT. Perhaps if you’re well versed in philosophy and Socrates already you may not find it as interesting.
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