A philosophy that saw self-possession as the key to an existence lived in accordance with nature , Stoicism called for restraint of animal instincts and severing of emotional ties. Seneca's contribution to a seemingly unsympathetic creed was to transform it into an inspiring declaration of the dignity of the individual mind.

Should laws about sex and pornography be based on social conventions about what is disgusting? Should felons be required to display bumper stickers or wear T-shirts that announce their crimes? This book presents a critique of the role that shame and disgust play in our individual and social lives and, in particular, in the law.

This volume brings together Martha Nussbaum's published papers, some revised for this collection, on the relationship between literature and philosophy, especially moral philosophy. It also includes two new essays and a substantial introduction.

Argues that a secular version of the stoic ethical project, based on contemporary cosmology and developmental psychology, provides the basis for a sophisticated form of ethical naturalism, in which virtually all the hard doctrines of the ancient Stoics can be clearly restated and defended.

The philosophy of Epictetus, a freed slave in the Roman Empire, has been influential on Western thought: it offers not only stimulating ideas but also practical guidance in living one's life. This work gives the presentation of the thought of Epictetus. It is intended for those interested in what we can learn from ancient philosophy.

The papers in this collection discuss the Stoic school of philosophy using intellectual and cultural inheritance, psychology and ethics to present a picture of the school itself and it's thought.