Author: Donald RobertsonWestern philosophy: Ancient, to c 500Published on 8 January 2026 by PAN MACMILLAN (Pan Books) in the United Kingdom.Paperback | 368 pages129 x 197 x 24 | 252g ‘Donald J. Robertson is one of my favourite writers’ – Ryan Holiday, bestselling author and founder of The Daily Stoic‘One of the best books ever written on the power and practicality of philosophy for building a good and successful life’ – Tom Morris, bestselling author of Plato’s Lemonade Stand and Stoicism for DummiesHow can we apply the teachings of the greatest ancient philosopher to modern life?Socrates is the most famous ancient philosopher and the source of the entire Western philosophical tradition. He spent his life teaching practical philosophy to ordinary people in the streets of Athens, yet few people today are familiar with the wisdom he has to offer us – until now.In this groundbreaking book, Donald J. Robertson, a practising cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, transports readers back to the streets of ancient Athens, expertly weaving together a page-turning account of the visionary man to show us how we can apply Socratic ideas to our daily lives.Through a vivid, semi-fictionalized narrative, readers have a ringside seat to witness Socrates's journey firsthand - from his military service and public trials to his ultimate execution. This engaging guide introduces the core Socratic principles and reveals how his method of rigorous self-examination is more relevant than ever in a world filled with misinformation.‘Engagingly written and highly accessible, especially innovative in highlighting the significance of Socratic philosophy for modern readers’ – Chris Gill, Professor Emeritus of Ancient Thought, Exeter University
