Paul Dubois - Self-Control & How to Secure It, Part 1

This meeting of Tampa Stoics is IN-PERSON at The Skills Center (5107 N 22nd St, Tampa, FL 33610). We will have a private room.

Reading Material - "Self-Control and How to Secure It" - Dr. Paul Charles Dubois

In this meeting we will cover Chapters 1, 2, and 3; The Conquest of Happiness, Thought, and The Act.

Can you really teach yourself to stay calm?

More than a century ago, Swiss neurologist Dr. Paul Charles Dubois answered with a confident yes. In Self-Control and How to Secure It, he argues that mastery over our impulses, anxieties, and tempers isn’t a gift reserved for the strong-willed. It’s a skill anyone can build through reason, reflection, and daily practice.

Drawing on his experience treating nervous and anxious patients, Dubois makes the case that we are far less at the mercy of our moods than we think. Sound thinking, firm convictions, and steady habits can steer our emotions, rather than letting emotions steer us. Part moral philosophy, part practical guide, his book blends Stoic wisdom with early psychological insight.

Link to Material on Internet Archive, where it is also available for download: https://archive.org/details/selfcontrolhowto00dubo/page/2/mode/2up

Meeting Venue

The Skills Center - 5107 N 22nd St, Tampa, FL 33610. It is south of Hillsborough Avenue on 22nd Street in Tampa. Parking can be accessed from McBerry Street or 22nd Street. There is no food or drink at the venue, you can bring one if you choose, but we must be good guests and clean up after ourselves. Thank you!

In general, Stoicism teaches us how to handle difficult people and events, how to avoid anger and worry, and overall to use moderation in all aspects of our lives. We will discuss how Stoic practice can lead to a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Our group enjoys open-minded, respectful conversations on Stoicism and how it relates to science, culture, philosophy, other belief systems, and pop culture (books and movies). If we differ in our opinions, then "we agree to disagree". The long-term goal is to improve our minds via group discussions. Our group does NOT discuss religion or politics.

This event is free and open to the public.