If you had to summarize Hadot's likely core argument based solely on this title and categories, how would you articulate it in a single sentence for someone unfamiliar with his work, and what makes that argument compelling?

Synthesized answer

Based solely on the title and categories provided, Hadot's likely core argument is that spiritual exercises were a fundamental aspect of ancient philosophy, which he considers in relation to religion [1].

This argument is compelling because it suggests a re-framing of ancient philosophy not just as theoretical discourse, but as a practical way of life involving deliberate practices. The connection to religion further implies that these philosophical exercises aimed at profound personal transformation, similar to religious practices.

However, the provided passages do not offer enough detail to articulate the specific nature of these spiritual exercises, what "ancient philosophy" encompasses, or the precise relationship Hadot draws between philosophy and religion. Therefore, while the core idea of philosophy as a practice is suggested, the full scope and compelling details of his argument remain unstated.

Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.