Review: A Philosophical Self-Help Book.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 2, 2013
This book is a really great bargain to be only 99 cents. I first noticed it when it appeared on the "also bought" list for my own book,Philosophy: What It Is and Why We Need It. After reading it, I can see why.Erin Vorhaus has managed to write a short "manual" for how to live a rational, philosophical life. In his view, success in work, love, and life comes not from reality-denying "positive thinking" but rather from the acceptance of reality and of one's own limitations as a human being. In his view, it is only by understanding these limitations that we can determine what will actually work in our lives and therefore find true happiness. Vorhaus would probably agree with Francis Bacon (and with Ayn Rand, who was fond of this quote) that "Nature, to be commanded, must be obeyed".I can only hope that Vorhaus' work is read by more people as it would surely make the world a better place. However, as a realist, I know that isn't likely to happen. So I will simply make use of Vorhaus' advice in my own life and leave the rest of the world to figure out for themselves what they want to do.For a similar work that is longer and more detailed, I would suggest Aaron Clarey'sEnjoy the Decline.Tom Blackstone, Author ofPhilosophy: What It Is and Why We Need It.