Being Better: Stoicism for a World Worth Living In by Kai Whiting & Leonidas Konstantankos is a short, but enlightening foray into Stoicism. This philosophy is as pertinent today, as it was in the ancient world. Perhaps moreso, given the nonsense going on the world over.
What I really enjoyed were the engaging stories of the ancients scattered throughout. These led into lessons unique to each person’s story, and ended with questions for thought. In addition to better known figures like Zeno, Musonius Rufus, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and Cato, there are a slew of others such as Cleanthes, Posidonius, and Sphaerus. Sphaerus’ chapter was my favourite, not just for the story and philosophy lesson, but the Spartan history!
What this isn’t is a book that will teach you ‘life hacks’. No shortcuts to money, fame, or power. Cultivating a Stoicism practise is work. Hard work. It will prompt you to face yourself, really face yourself, and gain deeper insight into your psyche, motivations, and intentions. It will guide you in cultivating a virtuous life. A life worth living.
Recommended for practising Stoics, baby Stoics, and anyone interested in learning more about this most practical of philosophies.
****Reviewed for the Seattle Book Review
Want a copy? Amazon has you covered!
Review of another great Stoicism book- How to be a Stoic.
