The Good Life: Truths That Last in Times of Need
Peter J. Gomes believes that today's college students have it in them to be the greatest generation.The Good Life, a manifesto by the minister at Harvard University, debunks the idea that today's college students are spoiled, materialistic, and morally complacent. Reflecting on 30 years of ministry to undergraduates, Gomes writes, "What has impressed me ... about these young people ... is their moral curiosity, their desire to know, to be, and to do good." Drawing on stories of Gomes's relationships with students, as well as  his knowledge of philosophy, theology, and the Bible,The Good Lifeoffers guidance for finding the treasure promised by its title. Some readers will question how much Gomes's personal experience really says about American culture at large (the first chapter begins, "Harvard Yard is never more grand than it is on Commencement Day."). But much ofThe Good Lifeis of near universal value, such as Gomes's distinction between "plausible lies" that define the good life in secular culture and the "fantastic truths" that bring true joy.--Michael Joseph Gross--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.