How to be Good: Classical Greek and Roman perspectives on Ethics and Empathy

• Presented by Dr Sarah Lawrence
• Hosted by Professor Alistair Noble
• April 9 2026
• 12.30pm- 2pm (AEST)
• This will be a hyrbid event (held on campus and on zoom)

Ethics were a primary concern of most Greco-Roman schools of philosophy, but the thinkers in question varied widely on exactly how one should attempt to live a good life. From the radical self-control of the Stoics to the distinctly un-glamorous focus on pleasure of the Epicureans, the focus tended to be very much on a rational approach which eschewed the role of emotion. This presents an interesting contrast to many modern models of ethics which see emotion - and particularly the recognition of others' emotions often described as empathy - as critical to morality. In this conversation, I'll be asking to what extent this unemotional approach could still be useful for us as thinkers today.

About the presenter:

Dr Sarah Lawrence is the Charles Tesoriero Assoc. Prof in Latin at UNE. She is currently the Assoc. Dean T&L for the Faculty of HASSE, which reflects her complete commitment to providing students with the best possible learning experience. As a researcher, Sarah is fond of underloved Roman texts and trying to get inside the Roman mind.

Tickets are free, but bookings are essential.