Philosopher, Stoicism Scholar

William O. Stephens

William O. Stephens is a philosopher specializing in Stoicism, ethics, and ancient philosophy. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania and spent over 30 years teaching at Creighton University, where he is now Professor Emeritus. His work spans friendship, ecology, and human nature with a focus on Stoic thought.

Known For

Stoic philosophy scholarshipMarcus Aurelius interpretationAncient ethicsEpictetus studies

Canon

Cato the Younger: The Stoic All the Stoics Admired

Curious

Focus Only on What You Can Control

Canon

Books

■Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King(2025)

■Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed

■Epictetus's Encheiridion: A New Translation and Guide to Stoic Ethics

■Stoic Ethics: Epictetus and Happiness as Freedom

Episodes

#What Ryan Holiday Would Ask Marcus AureliusSep 3, 2026 #How Epictetus Captured The Mind Of Marcus AureliusJul 22, 2026 #Why "Meditations" Needs a New Name—According to William O. StephensApr 25, 2026