Philosophy for Life: And other dangerous situations

Description

A dynamic guide to philosophy for everyday life - using key ideas to live well and happily In his engaging book, Jules Evans explains how ancient philosophy saved his life, and how we can all use it to become happier, wiser and more resilient. Jules imagines a dream school, which includes 12 of the greatest and most colourful thinkers the world has ever known. Each of these ancient philosophers teaches a technique we can use to transform ourselves and live better lives. These practical techniques are illustrated by the extraordinary stories of real people who are using them today - from marines to magicians, from astronauts to anarchists and from CBT psychologists to soldiers. Jules also explores how ancient philosophy is inspiring modern communities - Socratic cafes, Stoic armies, Platonic sects, Sceptic summer camps - and even whole nations in their quest for the good life.

Jules Evans is the Policy Director at the Centre for the History of the Emotions at Queen Mary, University of London. He teaches practical philosophy at organisations including Saracens rugby club, HMP Low Moss, and the US Army. He was a BBC New Generation Thinker for 2013 and regularly speaks on BBC Radio, as well as on NPR, ABC Australia, RTE and other outlets. He has also written for publications including the Financial Times, Guardian, The Economist and the Wall Street Journal. He blogs at www.philosophyforlife.org, and helps to run the London Philosophy Club, which is the biggest philosophy club in the world.

An important book, because it reminds us philosophy is not just about analysis. It's also about the good life. -- Matthew Syed * Times books of the year * Instructive and thought-provoking...shows philosophy is not just for stuffy classrooms * Financial Times * This wonderful book shows how modern psychology is consistent with the best that was thought and known in the Ancient World...also beautifully written * Lord Richard Layard, author, Happiness: Lessons From A New Science * A revelation -- Alexander Linklater * Observer * Hugely enjoyed Philosophy for Life. Am an avid fan of classical philosophy & this book applies it thoroughly & beautifully. -- Derren Brown