1 SENTENCE SUMMARY: This book offers a captivating exploration of the lives of renowned philosophers, allowing readers to gain greater insight into the complexities of the human condition.
“We can all choose to live our lives in the broadest possible way, to make a difference in the world, to live our lives as a drama that is at once individual and collective, and that contributes to the ongoing evolution of the human species.” – James Miller
Quick Info
Category: Stoicism
Publish Date: 2011-01-04
# Pages: 432
ISBN: 0374150850
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Table of Contents
Overview
Examined Lives by James Miller is an exploration of the lives of some of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century.
Through interviews and biographical research, Miller takes readers on an in-depth journey into the lives of the giants of the age – Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Michel Foucault, Richard Rorty, and Jurgen Habermas – and examines their motivations, ideas, and accomplishments.
Miller also looks at the historical and social context of their lives and how it impacted their beliefs and works.
Examined Lives is an insightful look into the lives and ideas of some of the greatest minds of our time.
4 Key Lessons from Examined Lives by James Miller
1. Appreciate the value of hard work
Examined Lives illustrates the hard work and dedication of some of history’s most influential figures.
Each individual worked ceaselessly to develop their skills and knowledge in order to achieve the success they are now remembered for.
This is a great reminder to appreciate the value of hard work and dedication.
It encourages us to take responsibility for our own actions and strive towards success with dedication, resilience and a never-give-up attitude.
2. Believe in yourself
Examined Lives emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, regardless of the odds stacked against you.
Despite the obstacles and struggles these figures encountered, they never lost faith in their own abilities and never gave up on their dreams.
This is a great reminder to stay strong and never underestimate your own potential.
3. Pursue your goals
Examined Lives emphasizes the importance of having the courage to pursue our dreams and goals.
These figures had the courage to take risks and put themselves out there, even when they were met with resistance or criticism.
This is a great reminder to take risks and pursue our goals, no matter how daunting or impossible they may seem.
4. Make the most of your life
Examined Lives highlights the importance of making the most of our lives.
These figures made the most of their talents and opportunities, and left an indelible mark on history.
This is a great reminder to make the most of our own lives, and to use our talents and skills to the best of our abilities.
Who Should Read It
This book would be of particular interest to individuals interested in the biographies, beliefs, and philosophies of the renowned figures of the Western world, such as Socrates, Epicurus, Seneca, and Montaigne.
It would also be of interest to those interested in the history of philosophy, ethics, and the history of ideas.
Where to Get It
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About James Miller
James Miller is an American professor of politics and philosophy at the New School for Social Research in New York City.
He has written numerous books on philosophy, politics, and culture, and is a frequent contributor to The New York Times and The New Republic.
Examined Lives is a collection of biographical essays exploring the lives of some of history’s most influential thinkers, including Socrates, Montaigne, Nietzsche, and Freud.
Miller draws on a range of sources, including ancient texts and contemporary scholarship, to offer a fresh look at the lives of these great thinkers and the ideas that shaped their lives.
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Other Stoicism Books you may Like:
- Best Books on Stoicism
- How to be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci
- How to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald Robertson
- Letters from a Stoic by Seneca
- Letters on Ethics: To Lucilius by Seneca
Over to You
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Thanks a lot,
Simon
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