Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- How does Marcus's position as emperor affect your perception of his philosophical principles?
- What is mankind's place in the universe, according to Marcus's writings?
- How do the gods play into earthly life, if at all?
- Where does Marcus's duty primarily lie? With himself? With the community? With the gods?
- Is it ultimately possible to be a good person and a public figure?
- In what ways does Marcus's philosophy of community mesh with our own? How does it differ?
- How does Marcus's understanding of the physical world affect his outlook on community and relationships?
- What is the ultimate goal of humanity, according to Marcus?
- In what ways do emotional responses degrade human dignity?
- What is the scala naturae, and why is it so important for Marcus' thinking?