Twentieth- and twenty-first-century academic philosophy has largely lost sight of its ancient origin in a set of spiritual practices ranging from forms of dialogue, via meditative reflection, to theoretical contemplation.  These philosophical practices, as well as the philosophical discourses the different ancient schools developed in conjunction with them, aimed primarily to form, rather than only to inform, the philosophical student.The goal of the ancient philosophies was to cultivate a specific, constant attitude toward existence, by way of the rational comprehension of the nature of humanity and its place in the cosmos.

What is Ancient Philosophy?
Pierre Hadot

Background on Pierre Hadot