A.A. Long

Anthony Arthur Long (A.A. Long) is a British and American classical scholar and Professor Emeritus of Classics and Literature at the University of California, Berkeley. His primary focus has been on Hellenistic philosophy, particularly Stoicism, and he has made significant contributions to the understanding of ancient Greek and Roman philosophical texts. Long's most influential works include "Hellenistic Philosophy: Stoics, Epicureans, Sceptics" (1974) and "Epictetus: A Stoic and Socratic Guide to Life" (2002). His research has helped bridge ancient philosophical concepts with modern interpretations, making complex Stoic ideas accessible to contemporary readers. Throughout his career, Long has published extensively on topics ranging from Socrates and pre-Socratic philosophy to the influence of ancient thought on modern philosophy. His work "Greek Models of Mind and Self" (2015) examines how ancient Greek thinkers conceptualized human psychology and consciousness. Long received his education at University College London and has held teaching positions at the University of Nottingham, University College London, and Liverpool University before joining Berkeley in 1973. He is a fellow of the British Academy and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Readers praise Long's ability to explain complex philosophical concepts clearly and systematically. His "Hellenistic Philosophy" receives particular recognition for making ancient philosophy accessible without oversimplifying ideas. On Amazon, multiple reviewers note his thorough citations and balanced treatment of different philosophical schools. What readers like: - Clear explanations of difficult concepts - Detailed historical context - Comprehensive source references - Logical organization of material - Connection of ancient ideas to modern thought What readers dislike: - Dense academic writing style in some works - Assumes prior knowledge of classical philosophy - Limited coverage of some philosophical schools Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: "Hellenistic Philosophy" - 4.1/5 (200+ ratings) "Epictetus" - 4.3/5 (150+ ratings) Amazon: "Hellenistic Philosophy" - 4.5/5 (50+ reviews) "Greek Models of Mind and Self" - 4.4/5 (20+ reviews) One reviewer summarized: "Long writes for serious students of philosophy rather than casual readers, but his analysis rewards careful study."

Epictetus: A Stoic and Socratic Guide to Life (2002) A biographical and philosophical examination of the slave-turned-philosopher Epictetus, analyzing his role in Stoic thought and his teaching methods.

Hellenistic Philosophy: Stoics, Epicureans, Sceptics (1974) A systematic overview of the major philosophical schools that emerged in the Hellenistic period following Alexander the Great.

From Epicurus to Epictetus: Studies in Hellenistic and Roman Philosophy (2006) A collection of essays examining the development of philosophical ideas from early Hellenistic thought through the Roman Empire.

Greek Models of Mind and Self (2015) An analysis of how ancient Greeks conceived of human psychology, consciousness, and personal identity.

How to Be Free: An Ancient Guide to the Stoic Life (2018) A translation and commentary of Epictetus's Manual (Encheiridion), with parallel Greek and English texts.

The Cambridge Companion to Early Greek Philosophy (1999) An edited volume covering the development of Greek philosophical thought from its origins through the fifth century BCE.

Stoic Studies (1996) A collection of research papers examining various aspects of Stoic philosophy, including ethics, psychology, and logic.

La filosofía helenística (1975) A Spanish-language examination of Hellenistic philosophical schools and their primary doctrines.

Pierre Hadot writes about ancient philosophy as a way of life and practical wisdom. His work focuses on spiritual exercises and philosophical practices in Greek and Roman traditions.

Julia Annas examines virtue ethics and ancient moral philosophy with emphasis on practical reasoning. She connects Hellenistic philosophy to modern ethical frameworks and explores eudaimonia.

Christopher Gill specializes in ancient thought about self-hood and personality. His research covers Stoic psychology and its relationship to modern concepts of personhood.

Martha Nussbaum analyzes ancient Greek and Roman philosophy's relevance to contemporary ethics and emotions. She connects classical philosophical ideas to current social and political issues.

John Sellars focuses on Stoicism and its practical applications through history. His work examines how Stoic philosophy influenced later thinkers and its role in daily life.