Quintus Curtius

When choosing or pursuing a career, should we base our decision on "idealism" or on "practicality"? What is the balance between doing what you love and what can earn you a living? And how do we find this balance?

We explore some answers.

We address the following reader questions:

1. Are men becoming "infantilized" in today's society?

2. What is the difference between a "loser" and someone who is just going through a rough period?

3. Do women "dislike" male self-improvement?

"On Duties" deals with a very large number of topics. One of the most important unifying threads of the book is the idea of "greatness of soul." What is it? Why is it relevant?

Note: The second passage I discuss is "On Duties" I.44 (I accidentally gave the incorrect citation number in the podcast).

Two questions are dealt with in this podcast. One reader has a question about procrastination. Another reader has an interpretation question about a passage from "On Duties."

A reader is concerned that he may be setting expectations and goals for himself that are not in accord with reality or practicality. He is wondering if he should make adjustments, but does't really know if he's just at a sticking point, or if he should change course altogether. I offer four suggestions for him to think about.

A 23-year-old reader in a European country is undecided what career path to take. He has narrowed down his choices training in art or training in law. But he's not sure which one is best for him. I offer my own thoughts, and then some thoughts gleaned from my translation of Cicero's "On Duties" (which is now available on Amazon.)

My new book, "On Duties," is the most explanatory, readable, and well-organized translation of Cicero's classic that is available in English, and perhaps in any language. I provide the three reasons why this is so. I also discuss the great theme running through the book: the idea of greatness of spirit.

What is greatness of spirit, and why is it important?

A reader notes that the previous generations failed to prevent the corruption and decay afflicting the US in the modern era. How did this happen? The short answer is that wealth and ease breed laziness and corruption. Tune in for more details.

A young man from Australia writes that he feels a general malaise and depression, and finds it difficult to get motivated. I offer some blunt talk to put things in perspective. I also provide some specific guidance on how he can break out of his old patterns.

A reader wants to know how reliable his intuition is. Should he rely on it, or should he instead fall back on his powers of rational analysis and deliberation? It's a great question.