How Philosophy Can Save Your Life: 10 Ideas That Matter Most Hot

This book is designed to provide the reader with tools for achieving greater meaning and peace out of life by exploring ten basic ideas through the writings of philosophers. Does it meet its goal?

I think it does, with some caveats. The author is a professor of philosophy, and the book has the burden of being a bit overwritten in a somewhat academic style. It is not as bad as many I have read by academics, but the prose tends a bit toward the flowery side, and while generally quite clear, it is by no means concise. It is well written given those nitpicks.

As a casual read, it wears a bit, but if one considers it as a sort of textbook for exploring certain aspects of philosophy, it suddenly comes into its own. It is set up to be used as a guide to exploring ten ideas or concepts:

Simplicity
Communication
Perspective
Flexibility
Empathy
Individuality
Belonging
Serenity
Possibility
Joy

The author chooses two philosophers to illustrate each topic, along with study questions, books to read, movies to watch, and music to listen to. It is also suggested that the reader create a "philosophy club," of people who can get together and discuss the ideas presented.

Since the book tries to bridge the ground between an academic textbook and a popular guide, it really inhabits a territory all its own, and it does that well. While my current life is far too hectic for the relaxed manner of exploration involved here, at one point in my life it would have been very interesting. It would certainly be a good introduction to these ideas for younger people who are victims of our sadly industrialized school system.

While I did like much of what the author had to say, I find the approach of philosophy too cerebral and restricted by its limitations of imagination. I use a more mystical approach and find that more satisfying and all-encompassing in its understanding. (Which is not to say the two are mutually exclusive.)

If you like the idea of an informal course of study of these ideas in a philosophical motif, and have the time to devote to the material recommended as well as the discussion, then you will probably find the book to be fun and interesting.

If you are expecting a quick, cookbook approach to gaining a few new philosophical levers to make your life better, then you will be disappointed. This is a book to be read and digested at leisure, not wolfed down on your way to the airport.