When it comes to happiness, perhaps it’s actually time to say out with the new and in with the old. In the 4th century B.C., the Greek philosopher Aristotle developed a framework for inner contentment around an idea that feels entirely relevant in the 21st century: that the foundation of being happy comes from doing what is right.
“If you believe that the goal of human life is to maximize happiness, then you are a budding Aristotelian,” writes the British classicist Edith Hall, author of Aristotle’s Way, who shares how infusing Aristotle’s lessons into her own life has provided her comfort in difficult times — applying his musings on mortality to help her make grief more manageable. In her book, Hall explains some of the philosopher’s most complex ideas in an approachable way, covering his notes on everything from the power of community to understanding your goals and why you should always consult a third party when making a decision.
- How an Alleged Spy Balloon Derailed an Important U.S.-China Meeting
- Effective Altruism Has a Toxic Culture of Sexual Harassment and Abuse, Women Say
- Inside Bolsonaro's Surreal New Life as a Florida Man—and MAGA Darling
- 'Return to Office' Plans Spell Trouble for Working Moms
- 8 Ways to Read More Books—and Why You Should
- Why Aren't Movies Sexy Anymore?
- Column: Elon Musk Should Not Be in Charge of the Night Sky
- How Logan Paul's Crypto Empire Fell Apart
- 80 for Brady May Not Be a Masterpiece. But the World Needs More Movies Like This