Socrates and Plato would totally scroll through this issue of Dornsife Connect as we shine a spotlight on our school of philosophy and how philosophy matters to you. We’re celebrating all month, so be sure to check USC Dornsife News and follow us on social media for more.

In this issue, learn about stoicism and how it can help us today, take a look at a little piece of Hogwarts right on campus, find some good reads for philosophy beginners, and meet the Army veteran pondering big questions.

Ancient wisdom is making a modern comeback. Stoicism, a 2,300-year-old philosophy, is seeing a surge in popularity.

Why it matters: Stoicism offers a framework for navigating emotions in today’s turbulent times and has significantly influenced contemporary mental health approaches.

The big picture: Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy founded around 300 B.C., teaches resilience by focusing on what we can control and accepting what we cannot.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was directly inspired by Stoicism, with its psychiatrist founder emphasizing the Stoic idea that our reactions, not events themselves, shape our emotions.

Critics argue that Stoicism’s modern revival, fueled by male influencers, promotes emotional repression rather than resilience.

Yes, but: Wedgwood says that position doesn’t accurately represent Stoicism.

Stoicism’s concept of “circles of concern” can help a person prioritize time and resources.

In his application to USC, Army veteran and philosophy major Evan Williams named Paddington Bear as his ideal fictional roommate, drawn to the character’s warmth, optimism and gentle approach to overcoming challenges.

Why it matters: After serving six years as a U.S. Army nurse, Williams’ choice highlights how life experience can shape unexpected academic paths — and reveals the deeper value philosophy can add to the mix.

After high school, Williams joined the Army, completed basic training, and trained as a practical nursing specialist.

After completing his military service, Williams followed his passion for philosophy, transferring to USC Dornsife to pursue his studies.

The Club meets weekly, with students discussing influential philosophical works like:

The bottom line: Williams recommends majoring in philosophy for its academic rigor and critical thinking skills, which can be applied to careers in law, business, medicine and politics.

In his words: “Specialties in terms of careers are great, of course, but somebody has to not be specialized,” Williams says. “We can’t have a society of essentially the most talented and equipped tradesmen. Somebody must be a mile wide and an inch deep, and I think philosophy offers this opportunity.

Interested in philosophy but not sure where to start? Associate Professor of Philosophy Dmitri Gallow recommends four books that explore topics like free will, a meaningful life and even existence itself. Check out his book list >>

Your favorite superheroes often embody the traits of Stoicism. USC Dornsife scholars explain what Stoicism is and why it remains popular today.

Explore the oldest library on campus, home to rare manuscripts and collections. The furniture, artifacts and building itself are nearly 100 years old.

Explore how Homer’s works have been received, reinterpreted and reshaped across time and cultures.

Manage academic stress with practical strategies to build resilience and confidence through a supportive group.

Join for the sixth annual Climate Forward conference focussing on practical solutions to climate change and identifying the political obstacles to implementing those changes.

Engage with cutting-edge philosophical thought at this graduate conference featuring presentations and discussions on a wide range of topics.

The Wall Street Journal offers USC students a free subscription to their website and app for timely, in-depth journalism that aims to unravel the complexities of today’s world.