Ethics: The Art of Character

Wooden Books

by Gregory Beabout

An engaging, thought-provoking, illustrated analysis of the classical principles of ethics applied to everyday dilemmas.

The Art of Character is the quintessential little book of big ideas. It draws on the work of Aristotle, Socrates, Plato--and on the words of Dante, Spinoza, Kant, Martin Seligman, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Chuang Tzu.

Ethicist Gregory Beabout describes Aristotle's lectures as aimed, not at the young, but at listeners "experienced in life . . . with a desire to pursue the common good and in possession of a sense of what it is to live a beautiful, meaningful life." This wise little book contemplates the quest for courage, justice, temperance, wisdom, empathy, humility, and much more--timeless goals that also remain timely. A chapter on "Ethics in Real Life" invites the reader to explore two contemporary dilemmas and puzzle out the ethical choices when the situations "present a clear choice whether or not to do something that appears wrong, in order to avert an apparently greater evil." Featuring chapters on medical ethics, workplace ethics, and environmental ethics, The Art of Character distills the wisdom of the ages into a sixty-four-page, unforgettable life lesson.

Genres: Philosophy

64 pages, Hardcover

Published January 2, 2018

Reviews

[Kira Griffin · Rating 3 out of 5]

bit basic tbh

[Henriet · Rating 1 out of 5]

Het is een kort boekje over de basics van een deugdzaam leven volgens verschillende oude filosofen. Doordat er zoveel verschillende onderwerpen en standpunten in vogelvlucht worden aangehaald in dit boek, vond ik het boek erg chaotisch.

Ik merk dat ik vrij weinig van het boek heb onthouden en helaas heb ik er niks nuttigs uit kunnen halen voor mijn essay.

[Joe Sabet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good little overview. I wish author could have incorporated a bit more perspectives like stoicism, Epicureanism, Bertrand Russell’s take on the good life, etc. For what’s here, it’s good, interesting and helpful for a beginner.

[James W · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick read that explores the history of ethics and current fields of thought. It is an introductory book, so I didn’t expect in-depth discussions, but I do appreciate the way Beabout makes topics more accessible and how he reinforces the need for ethics for our development.

[Sharon Jacobs · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite good but basic. For beginners.

[Azazel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short book but very informative on ethics and the different actions that make up the character of the individual.

[Ray A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best short book on virtues. Concise, well reasoned and written, with illuminating art illustrations. Makes an excellent gift for someone who appreciates substance as well as beauty.

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethics for beginners..but any book that covers Platos Allegory of the Cave has my full attention. Good quick read

[Ipap · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basic nuggets of ethics. Can’t expect too much from such a tiny book. But I still liked the idea to have this as a little reminder of the basic principles and philosophies. Pleasant.

[antonia · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Ethics: The Art of Character" is an excellent introduction to the basics of ethics, with a strong emphasis on Aristotle's contributions to the field. This book presents ethical concepts in a clear and approachable manner, making it perfect for beginners who are keen to explore this area. It effectively combines historical perspectives with modern applications, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of how ethical principles can shape character and decision-making. If you're interested in delving into ethics and want to start with a comprehensive and engaging guide then this is a great choice.