What is ancient philosophy? Book of Honorary Professor College de France, the largest connoisseur of ancient culture P. Ado gives an unconventional answer to this question: in antiquity, philosophy was, above all, a special way of life. Considering the teachings of such thinkers as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Epicurus, Zeno of Kythion, Pyrrho, Plotinus, etc. The author consistently pursues the idea of the primacy of life choice in relation to the theoretical content of philosophical doctrines. Particular attention is paid to the methods of teaching in ancient schools and the “spiritual exercises” practiced there. The book is written in simple, accessible language, includes a large number of extracts from primary sources and is addressed to a wide reader. Can serve as a teaching aid for students.