The World's Best Book Summaries
What are David Brooks’s 15 guiding principles for living a moral life? How can you work to become a better person in a world that celebrates narcissism? In his book The Road to Character, author David Brooks shares his 15-point humility code. His code covers topics such as becoming more selfless, admitting your flaws, seeking help from others, and more. Continue reading for Brooks’s 15 guidelines for living a moral life, organized by theme.
Why does David Brooks agree with Immanuel Kant’s sentiment that humans are “crooked timber”? What does Brooks mean when he says we should embrace the idea that humans are sinful by nature? In his book The Road to Character, author David Brooks asserts that humans are sinful by nature. Brooks discusses Immanuel Kant’s “crooked timber” morality and the fact that humans are meant to confront their sins in order to grow and build character. Keep reading for David Brooks’s take on Kant’s concept of crooked timber and sin.
Looking for The Road to Character quotes from David Brooks? What are some of the most noteworthy passages worth revisiting? In his book The Road to Character, David Brooks discusses the fact that modern society is more focused on “me” rather than “we.” He spends much of the book highlighting examples of famous historical figures that were able to make a difference because they focused on others more than themselves. Below are some noteworthy quotes from the book.
Who was Samuel Johnson? What contribution did he make to the English language? Samuel Johnson is best known for his creation of the first important dictionary of the English language. His life was full of sickness, rejection, and depression, but Johnson overcame his struggles by recognizing and accepting his flaws and pushing forward despite them. Keep reading to learn about the life of Samuel Jonson.
How did St. Augustine transform himself from an addict of earthly pleasures into a Saint? What role did religion play in his character transformation? St. Augustine’s younger years were spent succumbing to his earthly desires, such as thievery and sex. Despite his social standing, he didn’t feel successful because of his addictions. It wasn’t until St. Augustine surrendered to God that he was able to renounce his sinful ways. Keep reading for a brief biography of St. Augustine.
In what ways did Eisenhower repress himself to please others? How did Eisenhower’s self-sacrificing nature eventually win him a seat as President? In his book The Road to Character, David Brooks highlights some historical figures who put “we” before “me” and made sacrifices for the sake of humanity. One of the figures he discusses is Dwight D. Eisenhower. Continue reading to learn about Dwight D. Eisenhower’s accomplishments and life story.
How did Dorothy Day go from a party girl to the founder of the Catholic Worker movement? Did she regret the actions of her earlier years? Dorothy day’s biography is one of self-reflection and growth. In her younger years, she was lost for direction and didn’t know her purpose in life. But after the birth of her daughter and meeting a political activist, Day decided to dedicate her life to Catholicism and helping the poor. Keep reading to learn more about the life of Dorothy Day.
What is John Kotter’s Our Iceberg Is Melting about? How does his story about penguins teach readers about, change, teamwork, and leadership? In John Kotter’s book Our Iceberg Is Melting, he tells a fable about penguins who are faced with the reality that the iceberg they live on is melting and they must find a new home or perish. The story outlines the steps it takes and the difficulties companies face when they must adapt or die. Below is a brief overview of Kotter’s fable Our Iceberg Is Melting.
What are the key takeaways in David Brooks’s book The Road to Character? In what ways has society shifted from a “we” to a “me” mindset? The Road to Character by David Brooks is about the modern shift in moral character. Brooks provides many examples of important events that occurred in the past that wouldn’t have happened, had the people involved been as selfish as people today. Keep reading for a brief overview of The Road to Character.
Who was George Eliot (a.k.a. Mary Anne Evans)? What did she do for living? What are her most famous works? George Eliot (birth name: Mary Anne Evans), was the acclaimed author of many fictional works including Silas Marner and Middlemarch. She had a difficult upbringing and struggled to find her place in the world but developed her sense of self through the devouring of books and information. Keep reading for George Eliot’s biography.