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A Better Ten Commandments: A guide to living life with, and on purpose
"So long as there are thinkers and writers who can make this clear a case for rationality, there is still some hope for civilization."Critically Acclaimed Author and Social Psychologist Susan K. Perry Ph.D. "A thought provoking and insightful read. Relevant to anyone and everyone." "What a fresh and enlightening book!" "Wonderfully written. Inspirational and yet practical." "Thought provoking and original. A great take on how we should conduct ourselves on a daily basis and how we would impact society if we did Regardless of your religious beliefs, this book really drives home what we should be focusing on, and how to leave the world a better place because we were in it. Loved it!" Synopsis In the stylistic and firebrand approach to atheism of Dawkins and Hitchens, A Better Ten A Guide To Living Life With And On Purpose supplants the Decalogue and makes a clear cut case for reason and rationality. Pantheistically blending the best of history and philosophy, religion and science, A Better Ten Commandments illuminates a path to fulfillment that takes nothing on faith. Get your copy today
108 pages, Paperback
Published September 12, 2017
86 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
James Miller
2 books4 followersI’ve spent the last twenty years reading and exploring trying to figure out what truly matters in life. I wanted to understand where meaning and purpose come from. I’ve researched religion and science, history and philosophy and put what I’ve learned into a simple and concise framework
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A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life with, and On Purpose is the foundation of what will be many book in the A Better Ten series. New titles will come in the near future on some societies more pressing issues in life.
I want to let my struggles trying figure how to lead a life well lived shorten others path to fulfillment.
I want to lighten your burden in this confusing and chaotic world ...
I’ve lived my hero story ... now I want to help you write yours.
Here’s to living life with, and on Purpose
Love and Respect
James Miller
.
A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life with, and On Purpose is the foundation of what will be many book in the A Better Ten series. New titles will come in the near future on some societies more pressing issues in life.
I want to let my struggles trying figure how to lead a life well lived shorten others path to fulfillment.
I want to lighten your burden in this confusing and chaotic world ...
I’ve lived my hero story ... now I want to help you write yours.
Here’s to living life with, and on Purpose
Love and Respect
James Miller
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 18, 2018
In A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life with and on Purpose James Miller reviews some of the wisdom of the ages and uses it to formulate ten new commandments for living the examined life with meaning and purpose. They are 1. Be the Best Version of Thyself; 2. Discover Serenity; 3. Love Selflessly; 4. Practice Positive Reciprocity; 5. Find Perspective; 6. Be Grateful; 7. Cultivate a Rational Compassion; 8. Choose Growth; 9. Find Balance; 10. Know It’s Always Now.
I must admit that reading James Miller’s book, I felt like a prospector standing in a stream searching for gold. With my miner’s pan I dipped into the gravel and then carefully explored the sand for nuggets of gold. Occasionally I found one and put it carefully in my sack. So too when reading Miller’s book I looked for nuggets of wisdom and occasionally found them. For example Miller quotes Charlie Munger in chapter one. “Spend each day trying to be a little bit wiser than you were when you woke up.” That ties in nicely with the opening quote of the chapter by Ghandi: “As human beings our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world… as being able to remake ourselves.” Those two quotes are golden nuggets for me to put in my sack and not only remember, but apply today and all the tomorrows I have left.
In the Serenity Chapter we learn that “To complain is always non-acceptance of what is.” Ekhart Tolle expresses well what James Miller emphasizes in his book. Miller says “We must talk less(and complain less) and do more, and we must hold ourselves accountable to our values.” His mentor Tolle would agree completely with these wise words and so do I. Achievement depends on action, not whining and complaining which go nowhere and accomplish nothing.
Winston Churchill captures well the heart of the Third Commandment, Love Selflessly. “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Generosity takes us out of ourselves and the selfishness that is the cause of so much misery in this world and puts the focus on what we can do to make a difference for good in the lives of our family, friends, and neighbors. Miller tells us that his definition of love “is to help others become the best version of themselves.” I think everyone reading this review will agree that this kind of love can change the world, one person at a time and this is true gold.
In Finding Perspective Shakespeare tells us “There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so.” Miller makes a special point of helping us understand that “When we choose to look at the bright side of life, we create a feedback loop of positivity...” and he goes on to quote the Buddha who says that “...we become what we think.” Our thoughts become actions and even our smallest acts of kindness ripple out and make a difference for good that transforms the lives of our family and friends.
When Miller recommends for us to Be Grateful, he wisely quotes Cicero who says that “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.” Miller points out that learning to be grateful for what we have is the foundation for health and well-being. For Miller the glass is always half full and that positive attitude allows him to renew himself each day. Yes, like all of us he has setbacks, but those just remind him that he is human and it allows him to connect more meaningfully to the important people in his life.
As we come to the last commandment, Know It’s Always Now, we come back to the beginning and Eckhart Tolle and his fine little book, The Power of Now. Tolle says, “Wherever you are, be there. If you can be fully present now, you’ll know what it means to be alive.” The past is history that can’t be changed and the future is uncertain. What we have always is this present moment. Wherever You Go, There You Are says John Kabat-Zinn and James Miller agrees with him. And in that present moment James Miller quotes Emerson to finish his book. Miller’s goal is “...to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.” Do what you can to make a difference for good Now! One of my favorite poems by Emily Dickinson, the belle of Amherst, says, “If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain. If I can ease one life the Aching, or cool one Pain, Or help one fainting Robin Unto his Nest again, I shall not live in vain.” Amen to that sentiment.
The title of James Miller’s book is A Guide to Living Life with and on Purpose. Readers of this review will surely agree that we have found some golden nuggets in James Miller’s book – words that are as good as gold and as enduring and words that help us live our life with meaning and purpose. Now is the time to take these golden words of wisdom and spend them wisely and well as we connect meaningfully in the lives of our family and friends.
I must admit that reading James Miller’s book, I felt like a prospector standing in a stream searching for gold. With my miner’s pan I dipped into the gravel and then carefully explored the sand for nuggets of gold. Occasionally I found one and put it carefully in my sack. So too when reading Miller’s book I looked for nuggets of wisdom and occasionally found them. For example Miller quotes Charlie Munger in chapter one. “Spend each day trying to be a little bit wiser than you were when you woke up.” That ties in nicely with the opening quote of the chapter by Ghandi: “As human beings our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world… as being able to remake ourselves.” Those two quotes are golden nuggets for me to put in my sack and not only remember, but apply today and all the tomorrows I have left.
In the Serenity Chapter we learn that “To complain is always non-acceptance of what is.” Ekhart Tolle expresses well what James Miller emphasizes in his book. Miller says “We must talk less(and complain less) and do more, and we must hold ourselves accountable to our values.” His mentor Tolle would agree completely with these wise words and so do I. Achievement depends on action, not whining and complaining which go nowhere and accomplish nothing.
Winston Churchill captures well the heart of the Third Commandment, Love Selflessly. “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Generosity takes us out of ourselves and the selfishness that is the cause of so much misery in this world and puts the focus on what we can do to make a difference for good in the lives of our family, friends, and neighbors. Miller tells us that his definition of love “is to help others become the best version of themselves.” I think everyone reading this review will agree that this kind of love can change the world, one person at a time and this is true gold.
In Finding Perspective Shakespeare tells us “There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so.” Miller makes a special point of helping us understand that “When we choose to look at the bright side of life, we create a feedback loop of positivity...” and he goes on to quote the Buddha who says that “...we become what we think.” Our thoughts become actions and even our smallest acts of kindness ripple out and make a difference for good that transforms the lives of our family and friends.
When Miller recommends for us to Be Grateful, he wisely quotes Cicero who says that “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.” Miller points out that learning to be grateful for what we have is the foundation for health and well-being. For Miller the glass is always half full and that positive attitude allows him to renew himself each day. Yes, like all of us he has setbacks, but those just remind him that he is human and it allows him to connect more meaningfully to the important people in his life.
As we come to the last commandment, Know It’s Always Now, we come back to the beginning and Eckhart Tolle and his fine little book, The Power of Now. Tolle says, “Wherever you are, be there. If you can be fully present now, you’ll know what it means to be alive.” The past is history that can’t be changed and the future is uncertain. What we have always is this present moment. Wherever You Go, There You Are says John Kabat-Zinn and James Miller agrees with him. And in that present moment James Miller quotes Emerson to finish his book. Miller’s goal is “...to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.” Do what you can to make a difference for good Now! One of my favorite poems by Emily Dickinson, the belle of Amherst, says, “If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain. If I can ease one life the Aching, or cool one Pain, Or help one fainting Robin Unto his Nest again, I shall not live in vain.” Amen to that sentiment.
The title of James Miller’s book is A Guide to Living Life with and on Purpose. Readers of this review will surely agree that we have found some golden nuggets in James Miller’s book – words that are as good as gold and as enduring and words that help us live our life with meaning and purpose. Now is the time to take these golden words of wisdom and spend them wisely and well as we connect meaningfully in the lives of our family and friends.
March 24, 2018
The ten chapters cover ten different topics beginning with ways to be the best version of oneself. All chapters begin with some quotations by famous people of history such as Mahatma Gandhi, Henry Ford, Goethe, Epictetus, Swami Vivekananda, Jesus Christ, Charles Dickens to name a few.
Read more here: biblichor.com
Read more here: biblichor.com
February 1, 2018
James Miller has written an impressive book. He is purposely provocative and challenging. He is asking/demanding us to be our very best. He presents his thoughts well, along with powerful quotes, bibliography, references, and more!
June 10, 2018
In writing this review, I am finding it difficult to concentrate on commenting on the writing and the way it is presented. I keep getting sidelined into imaginary arguments with the author about his ideas.
Which, if you are a writer of this sort of book, is a good sign. If your readers are caught up in your ideas so much that they miss the little errors that interfere with the reading, then you’ve got powerful ideas. A benefit that this writer needs, because the execution of his philosophy is not as smooth as the ideas that produce it.
So, Let’s Get Content out of the Way First
I had all sorts of fun with Miller’s discussion of the biases that keep humans from making logical decisions: conformation bias, the placebo affect, and my favourite, the blind spot bias, where you don’t believe that you have biases at all. Which, I’m afraid, applies to most people. Perhaps even me, but I don’t think so.
On the other hand, I find it hard to agree with his argument that ethics can be objective. “I think, however, that ethics can operate just like chemistry or biology.” Given the changing nature of human society and ideas, I’m not sure that an ethical ideal that seems perfectly logical and correct today might not be anathema in a hundred year’s time. Dare I mention Manifest Destiny and the White Man’s Burden?
Another one that bothered me: “To a certain extent, we are by nature fundamentally good.” This strikes me as just the flip side of the old coin that mankind is inherently sinful, and hardly belongs in the philosophy of an atheist who finds the absolutes of organized religion the source of many of our society’s problems.
But in the long run, I have to agree that these new commandments are far more appropriate to our society than the original edition, so in that respect, Miller has achieved his objective.
Presentation
As with most of this type of literature, this book contains a lot of great quotes. Miller states that he doesn’t take credit for the great thoughts, just the act of compiling them. So he borrows freely from Buddha, Aristotle, Thoreau, Einstein, and Yogi Berra for his ideas. He doesn’t pretend to be creating a new ethos. He just draws our attention to ideas that have stood the test of time.
Most of the arguments are presented in conversational language that is easy to follow, with regular dips into more complex philosophical style, lightened by a few small dashes of humour. I greatly enjoyed the latter, and would prefer the more elaborate concepts cleaned up and straightened out a bit.
One suggestion for improvement would be the addition of at least two more layers of headings. In Nonfiction writing of this sort, creating headings and subheadings is a useful technique to keep readers in touch with the logic. Also a great way to keep the writer from wandering.
A last minor point, but still germane: if you are discussing ideas, where the simple insertion of a comma can completely alter the meaning of a sentence, it is even more important not to disturb the flow of the reader’s involvement with poor sentence structure and the misuse of words. This book could use one more pass through by an editor who understands that grammar was created to enhance meaning.
To Sum Up
One of the most useful and enjoyable parts of reading a book like this is not what the text tells you, but where it sends your mind wandering when you lose track of what the author is saying.
As with all books in this genre, there is one criteria for deciding whether to recommend it or not; is it worth the time it takes to read it? In my case, the answer is yes. It wasn’t so much that I’m going to take Miller’s advice verbatim. It’s the thought processes and the introspection that those ideas sparked in my own head and my own life that were most worthwhile.
Which, if you are a writer of this sort of book, is a good sign. If your readers are caught up in your ideas so much that they miss the little errors that interfere with the reading, then you’ve got powerful ideas. A benefit that this writer needs, because the execution of his philosophy is not as smooth as the ideas that produce it.
So, Let’s Get Content out of the Way First
I had all sorts of fun with Miller’s discussion of the biases that keep humans from making logical decisions: conformation bias, the placebo affect, and my favourite, the blind spot bias, where you don’t believe that you have biases at all. Which, I’m afraid, applies to most people. Perhaps even me, but I don’t think so.
On the other hand, I find it hard to agree with his argument that ethics can be objective. “I think, however, that ethics can operate just like chemistry or biology.” Given the changing nature of human society and ideas, I’m not sure that an ethical ideal that seems perfectly logical and correct today might not be anathema in a hundred year’s time. Dare I mention Manifest Destiny and the White Man’s Burden?
Another one that bothered me: “To a certain extent, we are by nature fundamentally good.” This strikes me as just the flip side of the old coin that mankind is inherently sinful, and hardly belongs in the philosophy of an atheist who finds the absolutes of organized religion the source of many of our society’s problems.
But in the long run, I have to agree that these new commandments are far more appropriate to our society than the original edition, so in that respect, Miller has achieved his objective.
Presentation
As with most of this type of literature, this book contains a lot of great quotes. Miller states that he doesn’t take credit for the great thoughts, just the act of compiling them. So he borrows freely from Buddha, Aristotle, Thoreau, Einstein, and Yogi Berra for his ideas. He doesn’t pretend to be creating a new ethos. He just draws our attention to ideas that have stood the test of time.
Most of the arguments are presented in conversational language that is easy to follow, with regular dips into more complex philosophical style, lightened by a few small dashes of humour. I greatly enjoyed the latter, and would prefer the more elaborate concepts cleaned up and straightened out a bit.
One suggestion for improvement would be the addition of at least two more layers of headings. In Nonfiction writing of this sort, creating headings and subheadings is a useful technique to keep readers in touch with the logic. Also a great way to keep the writer from wandering.
A last minor point, but still germane: if you are discussing ideas, where the simple insertion of a comma can completely alter the meaning of a sentence, it is even more important not to disturb the flow of the reader’s involvement with poor sentence structure and the misuse of words. This book could use one more pass through by an editor who understands that grammar was created to enhance meaning.
To Sum Up
One of the most useful and enjoyable parts of reading a book like this is not what the text tells you, but where it sends your mind wandering when you lose track of what the author is saying.
As with all books in this genre, there is one criteria for deciding whether to recommend it or not; is it worth the time it takes to read it? In my case, the answer is yes. It wasn’t so much that I’m going to take Miller’s advice verbatim. It’s the thought processes and the introspection that those ideas sparked in my own head and my own life that were most worthwhile.
July 31, 2018
This book starts out with an introduction that really turned me off. The author stated that his intent "is not to offend any person of faith", but offending people of faith is exactly what he does. He states on page xv: "Last, and certainly not least, I'm not afraid to have an opinion on the matter, as I don't believe in imaginary friends (insert random god) meting out justice in the here and now or deciding my fate after the death of my brain." The introduction is filled with statements like this one. The author is obviously not a person who believes in a god, but I believe he could have shared his opinions more respectfully to those that do. Once I got to chapter one, I found his words to become less insulting, but the damage of making me not want to be like him, or live a life following commandments that he does, had already been done. I would suggest whether you are a person of faith or not, it is better to skip the introduction unless you are just looking for ideas to contemplate. It is not helpful. I don't think the path needs to be cleared to accept the author's commandments.
Starting in chapter one and in all of the following chapters, the author states a rule to live by, gives inspiring quotes and historical and scientific examples to back up his rule, and then explains how and why to follow this rule. I loved the quotes and his rules to live by were good ones. In my opinion, they even went along with the ten commandments, not against them, so I don't understand why the majority of his introduction is necessary. This book could have been named something totally different and been helpful to people of all different beliefs. So, his commandments, if called "alternate commandments" or "additional commandments" or something much more creative than I could ever come up with, could also help most people of faith.
The author writes in a simple, easy to follow way and is well organized. He puts a bit of humor in, although some of it may not be humorous to everyone. His examples are relevant to his commandments, but sometimes, he tries to over explain specific exceptions. If anyone has ever tried to make a list of rules, they know that there are always exceptions to them. The book was thought provoking, but I did find myself wanting to point out to the author that at times his statements were going against his own commandments. This was distracting.
All in all, if you are interested in thought provoking books, this is one. If you can ignore the religious bashing, underneath are some very helpful rules to live by.
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Starting in chapter one and in all of the following chapters, the author states a rule to live by, gives inspiring quotes and historical and scientific examples to back up his rule, and then explains how and why to follow this rule. I loved the quotes and his rules to live by were good ones. In my opinion, they even went along with the ten commandments, not against them, so I don't understand why the majority of his introduction is necessary. This book could have been named something totally different and been helpful to people of all different beliefs. So, his commandments, if called "alternate commandments" or "additional commandments" or something much more creative than I could ever come up with, could also help most people of faith.
The author writes in a simple, easy to follow way and is well organized. He puts a bit of humor in, although some of it may not be humorous to everyone. His examples are relevant to his commandments, but sometimes, he tries to over explain specific exceptions. If anyone has ever tried to make a list of rules, they know that there are always exceptions to them. The book was thought provoking, but I did find myself wanting to point out to the author that at times his statements were going against his own commandments. This was distracting.
All in all, if you are interested in thought provoking books, this is one. If you can ignore the religious bashing, underneath are some very helpful rules to live by.
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2018
This book carries on the conversation from the likes of Richard Dawkins, Miguel Ruiz and Bertrand Russell. It picks a controversial headline, and deals with it in an adult, pragmatic way.
Read More Book Reviews on my blog It's Good To Read
The book outlines Miller’s philosophy, outlining what most would consider universal principles for living harmoniously and with meaning, drawing on history, science and religion.
Summary:
Miller gives us his own context from the off. At 19, he felt an outsider, of no value, and contemplated suicide. Although he doesn’t tell us how he got through it, and admits that while his family were there for him, he was too stubborn to look for professional help, he survived that time of despair, and launched himself onto a path of discovery, leading to this book.
He prefaces the book by stating his intent not to denigrate any wisdom found within faith, but to criticize faith itself. By criticize, he means apply reason, scepticism and critical thinking, to find and reject those ideas that do not help create a durable, just and global society. Paraphrasing, he states that if your idea or belief has no consequence on anyone else, then believe what you like, but promotion of any particular set of ideas (religious, ethical, philosophical, etc.) must be subject to rigorous examination, in order that they will increase the sum total of human happiness.
There are naturally ten main sections to this book, namely:
1: BE THE BEST VERSION OF THYSELF
2: DISCOVER SERENITY
3: LOVE SELFLESSLY
4: PRACTICE POSITIVE RECIPROCITY
5: FIND PERSPECTIVE
6: BE GRATEFUL
7: CULTIVATE A RATIONAL COMPASSION
8: �� CHOOSE GROWTH
9: BALANCE
10: KNOW IT’S ALWAYS NOW
Each chapter contains some great quotes, and inspiring commentary. For example – “spend each day trying to be a little wiser than you were when you woke up”.
A Brief Summary of each chapter:
1: Continually strive to be the best you can be with what you got, within the realm of human decency and ethical behaviour.
2: Do more, and complain afterwards, while being true to your values – doing more leaves you less time for complaining.
3: Give, without having a thought of reward for the act of giving.
4: Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.
5: The only constant is change, and we control our response to that change.
6: Being grateful is the bedrock for health and well-being, so don’t take things for granted.
7: Build your legacy through the acts you do for others, and the difference you make in their lives.
8: Life does not respond to want or need – it responds to deserve.
9: Ying and Yang – balance gratitude with reality, living in the now with preparing for the future, don’t lose sight of the forest for all the trees.
10: The past is history, the future uncertain, so live in the only moment you can, which is the now, and BE in the now.
What I Liked:
- The succinct distillation of received wisdom into practical thoughts and an approach to living a meaningful life.
- The style of writing, modern and forthright.
- The apt use of relevant quotations commencing each chapter, and relevant anecdotes (for example the Carl Sagan Perspective story, which I looked up separately for more detail, never having come across it before).
- The overall positivity of these commandments.
What I Didn’t Like:
- The cover is provocative and, as such, may just raise hackles before the discussions even begin – I would have toned that down.
- It is to be read by a relatively “safe” audience – those with enough material comforts and free time to read such books – unfortunately this excludes much of the world. Their “now” is survival, not “taking the dream vacation”. It is difficult to say then that all these tenets are better or universal, compared to “Thou shalt not kill”, for example.
- Allied to the point above, the Muslim world has not had a Renaissance or Reformation such as happened in Europe, so the context of religion is completely different in that culture compared to Christian cultures. While I agree with the author that we alone are responsible for our actions, and that ideas (God, for example) need hard proof, other perspectives will not encompass that thought, so I would have liked to see suggestions of a way forward, rather than a dismissal of these perspectives.
Overall:
This was preaching to the converted (pardon the turn of phrase) for me. This dismissal of organised religion (Muslim, Christian, Jewish, etc.) and the espousal of a rational, almost Enlightenment approach is something I agree with.
The principles given are universal, and are nigh-impossible for anyone of any particular persuasion to disagree with. However, as noted above, there is a contextual element to be considered, and this highlights the ongoing need for positive, constructive dialogue between all secular and religious viewpoints.
In terms of the principles themselves, while there is nothing particularly new or inventive about them, they are well laid out, cogently argued with excellent supporting quotes and stories. While implementing them may mean a series of life-changes, I think there is no doubt they lead onto a more fulfilling life.
I would thoroughly recommend this book, and hopefully it will kickstart positive, adult discussions about how we should use the one life we know we have.
Acknowledgements:
I received a free copy from the author, in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Read More Book Reviews on my blog It's Good To Read
The book outlines Miller’s philosophy, outlining what most would consider universal principles for living harmoniously and with meaning, drawing on history, science and religion.
Summary:
Miller gives us his own context from the off. At 19, he felt an outsider, of no value, and contemplated suicide. Although he doesn’t tell us how he got through it, and admits that while his family were there for him, he was too stubborn to look for professional help, he survived that time of despair, and launched himself onto a path of discovery, leading to this book.
He prefaces the book by stating his intent not to denigrate any wisdom found within faith, but to criticize faith itself. By criticize, he means apply reason, scepticism and critical thinking, to find and reject those ideas that do not help create a durable, just and global society. Paraphrasing, he states that if your idea or belief has no consequence on anyone else, then believe what you like, but promotion of any particular set of ideas (religious, ethical, philosophical, etc.) must be subject to rigorous examination, in order that they will increase the sum total of human happiness.
There are naturally ten main sections to this book, namely:
1: BE THE BEST VERSION OF THYSELF
2: DISCOVER SERENITY
3: LOVE SELFLESSLY
4: PRACTICE POSITIVE RECIPROCITY
5: FIND PERSPECTIVE
6: BE GRATEFUL
7: CULTIVATE A RATIONAL COMPASSION
8: �� CHOOSE GROWTH
9: BALANCE
10: KNOW IT’S ALWAYS NOW
Each chapter contains some great quotes, and inspiring commentary. For example – “spend each day trying to be a little wiser than you were when you woke up”.
A Brief Summary of each chapter:
1: Continually strive to be the best you can be with what you got, within the realm of human decency and ethical behaviour.
2: Do more, and complain afterwards, while being true to your values – doing more leaves you less time for complaining.
3: Give, without having a thought of reward for the act of giving.
4: Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.
5: The only constant is change, and we control our response to that change.
6: Being grateful is the bedrock for health and well-being, so don’t take things for granted.
7: Build your legacy through the acts you do for others, and the difference you make in their lives.
8: Life does not respond to want or need – it responds to deserve.
9: Ying and Yang – balance gratitude with reality, living in the now with preparing for the future, don’t lose sight of the forest for all the trees.
10: The past is history, the future uncertain, so live in the only moment you can, which is the now, and BE in the now.
What I Liked:
- The succinct distillation of received wisdom into practical thoughts and an approach to living a meaningful life.
- The style of writing, modern and forthright.
- The apt use of relevant quotations commencing each chapter, and relevant anecdotes (for example the Carl Sagan Perspective story, which I looked up separately for more detail, never having come across it before).
- The overall positivity of these commandments.
What I Didn’t Like:
- The cover is provocative and, as such, may just raise hackles before the discussions even begin – I would have toned that down.
- It is to be read by a relatively “safe” audience – those with enough material comforts and free time to read such books – unfortunately this excludes much of the world. Their “now” is survival, not “taking the dream vacation”. It is difficult to say then that all these tenets are better or universal, compared to “Thou shalt not kill”, for example.
- Allied to the point above, the Muslim world has not had a Renaissance or Reformation such as happened in Europe, so the context of religion is completely different in that culture compared to Christian cultures. While I agree with the author that we alone are responsible for our actions, and that ideas (God, for example) need hard proof, other perspectives will not encompass that thought, so I would have liked to see suggestions of a way forward, rather than a dismissal of these perspectives.
Overall:
This was preaching to the converted (pardon the turn of phrase) for me. This dismissal of organised religion (Muslim, Christian, Jewish, etc.) and the espousal of a rational, almost Enlightenment approach is something I agree with.
The principles given are universal, and are nigh-impossible for anyone of any particular persuasion to disagree with. However, as noted above, there is a contextual element to be considered, and this highlights the ongoing need for positive, constructive dialogue between all secular and religious viewpoints.
In terms of the principles themselves, while there is nothing particularly new or inventive about them, they are well laid out, cogently argued with excellent supporting quotes and stories. While implementing them may mean a series of life-changes, I think there is no doubt they lead onto a more fulfilling life.
I would thoroughly recommend this book, and hopefully it will kickstart positive, adult discussions about how we should use the one life we know we have.
Acknowledgements:
I received a free copy from the author, in return for an honest and unbiased review.
June 21, 2018
Pretty good advice
This book deals about how someone can deal with life easier and it also benefits those who aren't religious. At first I thought that this was going to be a religious book, then an irreligious book, but it's none of that. The author points out a lot of things that are true and make sense to me. This book can help just about anyone who really does want to improve their lives.
This book deals about how someone can deal with life easier and it also benefits those who aren't religious. At first I thought that this was going to be a religious book, then an irreligious book, but it's none of that. The author points out a lot of things that are true and make sense to me. This book can help just about anyone who really does want to improve their lives.
May 12, 2019
"As we progress, I believe a science of morality will emerge and grow."
A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life With, and On Purpose by James Miller is a really good read. From the choice of chapter titles to the wonderful Epilogue, Miller challenges the deepest thought pattern of most Americans and religious people. I usually whisk through short books, but I found myself reading slower to savor every word. Off the top I can say that this book is genuine. As I was reading it felt like I was in a conversation with a friend exchanging intellectual vibes for us both to remember and grow with. ABTC is written with intelligence, humor and definitely no nonsense.
"I'm not afraid to have an opinion on the matter, as I don't believe in imaginary friends (insert random god) meting out justice in the here and now or deciding my fate after the death of my brain."
A very unique feature about this book that I like is the series of quotes at the beginning of each chapter, hence to say I'm not just saying it, but many great thinkers have said it for thousands of years! The richest set of quotes for me came from the chapter Cultivate a Rational Compassion with wise words from Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi and Maya Angelou.
Each chapter in the book left me things to remember with things to remember and share because it is such a reality that people are suffering in this world and sometime just a kind word of encouragement can make a big difference, and that has nothing to do with religion. For example in the chapter titled Clearing the Path he writes: "You must challenge yourself to grow mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually." How often is this told to you by someone who says they care about you? To be encouraged in this way can open a myriad of opportunities for self-reflection to make your own life better. Miller continues in the chapter Practice Positive Reciprocity with: "We must feed, protect and nurture ourselves and kin before we can assist another, otherwise we'd never survive." This falls right in line with naturopathic principles that I teach my students, heal yourself first, that way you can be a testimony for how naturopathy can help in the healing processes. One last note that also intrigued me came from the chapter Choose Growth, he says: "Say no to all the things that are slowing or preventing the achievement of your goals. Learn to create habits rather than relying on will power." That's self explanatory, just say no!
I also love it when I can see myself in the pages of a book written by a total stranger. It is a confirmation of the affirmation that as divine beings we are all interconnected and stem from the same source of energy that sustains the universe.
I highly recommend this book, it is well written, witty and full of universal truths that anyone with and open mind and open heart to be the best version of themselves can grow with. I am glad I received a copy of this book in my book review PO Box and I give it 5 ankhs. In closing with a Buddha quote from A Better Ten Commandments: "'Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at leas we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful."
K. Akua Gray
May 12, 2019
Nassau, Bahamas
May 13, 2018
This is both a self-improvement and inspirational book with a very real difference. That difference is crucial. James Miller is a man on a mission. A mission I’m utterly at one with.
Our lives are governed from birth, throughout education and maturity, to the final day, by dogma, myth and legend posing as truth. Although those familiar 10 Commandments appear only in the texts of the Abrahamic religions, which account for around 55% of those who profess a faith, other religious groups are yoked to similarly restrictive, arbitrary and often frankly ludicrous rules.
What the author does here is to thoroughly debunk these 10 injunctions, examining them, analysing and putting them in their place. What sort of deity is it that puts personal vanity before the murder of one of its creations, for example? Simply examining the text of any religion generally confirms the rational conclusion that it’s all so much man-created hogwash. But, enough faith-bashing from me.
James Miller proposes replacements for those rules carved in stone by Moses, rules that failed to prevent the furious slaughter of 3,000 former adherents due to a fit of jealous rage.
He advocates a more reasonable set of social and personal rules that can be applied by and to all people in all lands. These are alternative guides that will improve the lives of those applying them and all those others with whom they come into contact.
I won’t list the new commandments here; the book does that job with common sense, passion and some optimism. Optimism, because I fear many readers who espouse a faith may find their desperate clinging to the dogma of unrecognised indoctrination will block their reading beyond the introductory chapter. This is a real shame, as the book sets out to help everyone.
The author is driven by passion and a desire to make a positive difference to a world currently mired in conflict and tension. To undo the often hypocritical, and frankly lunatic, regimes produced by the superstitious and fear-driven leaders of organised religion. He is not at all condemnatory (that’s all me, I confess!) recognising the very real contributions made by those faiths in terms of moral guidance, marred as this is so often by dangerously outdated custom and tradition.
Rational readers will readily agree with most of what this book has to say. Whether the reader mired in in religious belief, of whatever flavour, will be capable of defeating a lifetime’s indoctrination, and come to a better way of living, remains to be seen, however. I hope this miracle can occur, for the sake of our children and the future of humanity.
Our lives are governed from birth, throughout education and maturity, to the final day, by dogma, myth and legend posing as truth. Although those familiar 10 Commandments appear only in the texts of the Abrahamic religions, which account for around 55% of those who profess a faith, other religious groups are yoked to similarly restrictive, arbitrary and often frankly ludicrous rules.
What the author does here is to thoroughly debunk these 10 injunctions, examining them, analysing and putting them in their place. What sort of deity is it that puts personal vanity before the murder of one of its creations, for example? Simply examining the text of any religion generally confirms the rational conclusion that it’s all so much man-created hogwash. But, enough faith-bashing from me.
James Miller proposes replacements for those rules carved in stone by Moses, rules that failed to prevent the furious slaughter of 3,000 former adherents due to a fit of jealous rage.
He advocates a more reasonable set of social and personal rules that can be applied by and to all people in all lands. These are alternative guides that will improve the lives of those applying them and all those others with whom they come into contact.
I won’t list the new commandments here; the book does that job with common sense, passion and some optimism. Optimism, because I fear many readers who espouse a faith may find their desperate clinging to the dogma of unrecognised indoctrination will block their reading beyond the introductory chapter. This is a real shame, as the book sets out to help everyone.
The author is driven by passion and a desire to make a positive difference to a world currently mired in conflict and tension. To undo the often hypocritical, and frankly lunatic, regimes produced by the superstitious and fear-driven leaders of organised religion. He is not at all condemnatory (that’s all me, I confess!) recognising the very real contributions made by those faiths in terms of moral guidance, marred as this is so often by dangerously outdated custom and tradition.
Rational readers will readily agree with most of what this book has to say. Whether the reader mired in in religious belief, of whatever flavour, will be capable of defeating a lifetime’s indoctrination, and come to a better way of living, remains to be seen, however. I hope this miracle can occur, for the sake of our children and the future of humanity.
June 12, 2018
5 Stars: Truth Bearer
I won't say that "A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life With, and on Purpose" by James Miller won't offend your faith. But if you are a person that seeks knowledge or subscribed to the notion that we need to challenge our beliefs and optics because of most of us believe in whatever because we have been brainwashed since birth to have faith in things that don't hold water, read this book NOW! We should sit down and think about the layers of the nonsense that divides us, within this book you can take apart the layers as James Miller writes with clarity and substance, a guide to breaking the chains that bind us to our ignorance.
To say James Miller is playing "gods" by offering his version of the ten commandments, this is the kind of thinking that keeps us from finding new perspectives to push us to be better humans; the writer provokes us not because he is on a soapbox because he generally cares about the human condition.
“The type of love I’m speaking of is platonic and given with no expectations. This type of love is selfless, not transactional. And the true wonder and beauty of this type of love is that if you expect nothing, then everything given you will truly be a blessing."
There is more to this quote I found profound and perhaps reshaping my anger into understanding and changing my attitude towards my disappointment in people in this toxic political environment into a question, "what am I doing to make myself better?"
I am entering a phase in life that everything I know is suspect and I seek answers as I take another step into middle age. Ignorance is no longer affordable or logical show me a well-written book like "A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life With, and on Purpose," so I can grow. I highly recommended this book, James Miller will evoke feelings and encouragements of self-reflection.
I won't say that "A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life With, and on Purpose" by James Miller won't offend your faith. But if you are a person that seeks knowledge or subscribed to the notion that we need to challenge our beliefs and optics because of most of us believe in whatever because we have been brainwashed since birth to have faith in things that don't hold water, read this book NOW! We should sit down and think about the layers of the nonsense that divides us, within this book you can take apart the layers as James Miller writes with clarity and substance, a guide to breaking the chains that bind us to our ignorance.
To say James Miller is playing "gods" by offering his version of the ten commandments, this is the kind of thinking that keeps us from finding new perspectives to push us to be better humans; the writer provokes us not because he is on a soapbox because he generally cares about the human condition.
“The type of love I’m speaking of is platonic and given with no expectations. This type of love is selfless, not transactional. And the true wonder and beauty of this type of love is that if you expect nothing, then everything given you will truly be a blessing."
There is more to this quote I found profound and perhaps reshaping my anger into understanding and changing my attitude towards my disappointment in people in this toxic political environment into a question, "what am I doing to make myself better?"
I am entering a phase in life that everything I know is suspect and I seek answers as I take another step into middle age. Ignorance is no longer affordable or logical show me a well-written book like "A Better Ten Commandments: A Guide to Living Life With, and on Purpose," so I can grow. I highly recommended this book, James Miller will evoke feelings and encouragements of self-reflection.
May 17, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A Better Ten Commandments: A guide to living life with, and on purpose by James Miller is a book written by the heart and the experiences of the author.
The writer genuinely tried to present ten essential guidelines that will help people break free from the bonds of ignorance and set them free.
The book is a hands-on guide that will enable us gradually to get rid of prejudices and childhood indoctrinations and open the door for self-discovery and embracing philosophy.
If you are religious, then this book might not be for you. Furthermore, it is a book that will make a lot of people angry, but then again if a book doesn’t evoke emotions and feelings for me, it means it didn’t do its work.
James Miller decided to Play “God” and replaced the ten traditional commandments with ten of his own.
Some of the newly proposed commandments are self-help, self-growth and other methods that personally I have been using for the last 5 years now.
If you really want to escape the dead ends of your life, whatever they are, and try to build a better one, then this book is for you. It will save you time and money and stress.
We only have one life, and we need to live to the fullest our present. We need to learn from our past and plan for the future. This book will help you do that.
It was a pleasure reading this book, I don’t think I found an Iota that I disagree with it. I caught myself shaking my head in agreement in very page. I hope all people can read this book and see it’s not that difficult to turn your life around and throw away the darkness of ignorance.
Highly recommend it.
A Better Ten Commandments: A guide to living life with, and on purpose by James Miller is a book written by the heart and the experiences of the author.
The writer genuinely tried to present ten essential guidelines that will help people break free from the bonds of ignorance and set them free.
The book is a hands-on guide that will enable us gradually to get rid of prejudices and childhood indoctrinations and open the door for self-discovery and embracing philosophy.
If you are religious, then this book might not be for you. Furthermore, it is a book that will make a lot of people angry, but then again if a book doesn’t evoke emotions and feelings for me, it means it didn’t do its work.
James Miller decided to Play “God” and replaced the ten traditional commandments with ten of his own.
Some of the newly proposed commandments are self-help, self-growth and other methods that personally I have been using for the last 5 years now.
If you really want to escape the dead ends of your life, whatever they are, and try to build a better one, then this book is for you. It will save you time and money and stress.
We only have one life, and we need to live to the fullest our present. We need to learn from our past and plan for the future. This book will help you do that.
It was a pleasure reading this book, I don’t think I found an Iota that I disagree with it. I caught myself shaking my head in agreement in very page. I hope all people can read this book and see it’s not that difficult to turn your life around and throw away the darkness of ignorance.
Highly recommend it.
May 7, 2018
This is a really good book! I should probably state that I had a very religious upbringing and as a result hold many of the same "anti-religious" ideas so many of statements that some people could be offended by had no effect on me. What I love about the book is:
1) the author cites many different scientific, psychological, historical, etc. studies (experiment, fact, etc.)
2) it is well reasoned and thought out
3) the exception to the rule, cognitive dissonance, blind spot, etc. are concepts that are understood and explained
4) the "replacement" commandments are stellar ideals to live by and he quoted others and gave inspirational examples of other humans
What I do not like was that it was a little redundant and there is the religious "bashing". It is a very difficult thing to be able to address your own blind spot and I am sure he tried to do it. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, this is not a book that I could give a religious person and expect that they would be receptive to it. Had it be written in a slightly more positive and less excluding manner, it could have been book that opened people's minds to a slightly different way of thinking.
At the end of the day though, well done for what it is--a recipe book for living a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
1) the author cites many different scientific, psychological, historical, etc. studies (experiment, fact, etc.)
2) it is well reasoned and thought out
3) the exception to the rule, cognitive dissonance, blind spot, etc. are concepts that are understood and explained
4) the "replacement" commandments are stellar ideals to live by and he quoted others and gave inspirational examples of other humans
What I do not like was that it was a little redundant and there is the religious "bashing". It is a very difficult thing to be able to address your own blind spot and I am sure he tried to do it. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, this is not a book that I could give a religious person and expect that they would be receptive to it. Had it be written in a slightly more positive and less excluding manner, it could have been book that opened people's minds to a slightly different way of thinking.
At the end of the day though, well done for what it is--a recipe book for living a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
June 10, 2018
Interesting Philosophy
This book was very well-written, and had some interesting philosophies on life and religion. Miller writes his own version of the ten commandments, and they are quite a unique perspective. This book is thought-provoking and would be a great implementation or guide on how to live life the right way. The commandments are more like ethical principles for life. It's a way of looking at "thyself" and self-discovery. The words paint a grand picture and whether or not the reader is religious, it gives a new thought for self-wisdom.
This book was very well-written, and had some interesting philosophies on life and religion. Miller writes his own version of the ten commandments, and they are quite a unique perspective. This book is thought-provoking and would be a great implementation or guide on how to live life the right way. The commandments are more like ethical principles for life. It's a way of looking at "thyself" and self-discovery. The words paint a grand picture and whether or not the reader is religious, it gives a new thought for self-wisdom.
May 20, 2018
Insightful!
I thoroughly enjoyed the authors perspective and point of view on how to live a better life. When I choose to read this book, I thought it might be more of an argument about the Bible’s 10 commandments versus the authors opinion, but it was not. He is providing a better guide to happy living for everyone. As someone who has read this book and the Bible, I agree with the author in saying this is a better 10 commandments.
I thoroughly enjoyed the authors perspective and point of view on how to live a better life. When I choose to read this book, I thought it might be more of an argument about the Bible’s 10 commandments versus the authors opinion, but it was not. He is providing a better guide to happy living for everyone. As someone who has read this book and the Bible, I agree with the author in saying this is a better 10 commandments.
June 11, 2018
Ignore the one-star reviews. If you're caught up in dogma, then this isn't the book for you. But if you're genuinely interested in bettering yourself (and the world), this is a good place to start. Miller's ten commandments can be adopted by anyone, religious or not.
Thanks to the publisher and Amazon (as well as Goodreads) for the free digital copy of this book. I found a great deal of inspiration here and imagine I will refer back to it again and again.
Thanks to the publisher and Amazon (as well as Goodreads) for the free digital copy of this book. I found a great deal of inspiration here and imagine I will refer back to it again and again.
August 20, 2019
When it seems too logical, when it makes sense, when it feels right - then maybe this is how it should be.
Provides a seemingly common sense approach to coexisting with our fellow humans (strong Stoic ad Buddhist undertones) - now if only everyone would adopt such a mindset.
Contains some snarky bits and could have used a good proofreader, but overall a behaviors-not-beliefs approach to being a better human.
Received as a Goodreads giveaway.
Provides a seemingly common sense approach to coexisting with our fellow humans (strong Stoic ad Buddhist undertones) - now if only everyone would adopt such a mindset.
Contains some snarky bits and could have used a good proofreader, but overall a behaviors-not-beliefs approach to being a better human.
Received as a Goodreads giveaway.
October 2, 2022
Boring . This guy Is clearly externalizing built up insecurities. He is obviously a Mormon or Catholic reject attempting to compensate . This book does not inspire me one bit, but makes me feel bad for the author’s internal torment . He should stick to some sort of blue collar work and let the grown ups do the authoring; or at least take philosophy 101 before attempting anything like this again. Pathetic lol. Good gravy .
March 3, 2018
Great read.
March 21, 2018
I have read and reread this book!
Plus I bought like 6 copies for gifts!
Definitely how I want to live my life!
Plus I bought like 6 copies for gifts!
Definitely how I want to live my life!
June 10, 2018
A must read for everyone. It's time to rid ourselves of archaic theology and live our lives embracing facts and helping others along the way.
March 6, 2019
Very impressed that this author was able to convey some extremely important and valuable concept in a very short and concise book. I love all the quotes from famous thinkers!!
April 7, 2019
Ten guiding principles to help you enjoy life to its fullest. This great little book is full of wisdom, great quotes and references. Recommended reading.
June 4, 2020
This book is inspiring!
Everyone should read this book. Pass around the important information. Fantastic eye opening read that kept me wanting more. Thank you
Everyone should read this book. Pass around the important information. Fantastic eye opening read that kept me wanting more. Thank you
December 28, 2017
I think it's amazing but of course I would ... I wrote it!
December 27, 2022
I want to preface my comments by saying I really was drawn to the concept of the book, because I've also had thoughts about how the biblical 10 commandments do leave so many things unsaid ... like the omission of actions that we would consider to be highly immoral, such as infanticide, incest, or sexual abuse ... not mentioned ... so it made me wonder "what would be a good set of standards by which we should live?" Mr. Miller does that here, and presents some very useful posits from which one could live a meaningful life. I like that about this book. The suggestions he forwards are nearly universal, and I would agree that the world would be a better place if most people would adopt these principles into their own lives. They are:
BE THE BEST VERSION OF THYSELF
DISCOVER SERENITY
LOVE SELFLESSLY
PRACTICE POSITIVE RECIPROCITY
FIND PERSPECTIVE
BE GRATEFUL
CULTIVATE A RATIONAL COMPASSION
CHOOSE GROWTH
BALANCE
KNOW IT’S ALWAYS NOW
This is where the book is powerful.
Here is where the book is not. Taking away from his overall positive message is his overwhelming and seething disdain for people who hold different beliefs ... this seems to be in conflict with some of the ideals of the framework, like loving selflessly and practicing positive reciprocity. Hard to do that when one expresses so much disdain for the "other."
He also has a fairly simplistic understanding of the reason for the biblical ten commandments. He doesn't cast them in their original context and therefore loses a lot of the reasoning behind the intent. For example he seems to minimize coveting—the act of desiring something someone else possesses—when under the surface, coveting can lead to discontentment, jealousy, entitlement, anger, and eventually murder … so it's actually a big deal. To ignore the ramifications is not looking deep enough and missing the goal of another postulate, "finding perspective."
I gather that this is the least appealing conversation the Mr. Miller would entertain.
The biblical ten are about placing the self in the correct life context (see finding perspective, above); the point is that you are not autonomous, but must position one's self in relation to God or creation, nature, your origins (family), your immediate relationships, and society. I don't personally believe they were meant to be comprehensive, but serve as a base from which to build life experiences from the proper understanding of one's orientation to God and others. So they, like Mr. Miller's ten, are a good starting place.
BE THE BEST VERSION OF THYSELF
DISCOVER SERENITY
LOVE SELFLESSLY
PRACTICE POSITIVE RECIPROCITY
FIND PERSPECTIVE
BE GRATEFUL
CULTIVATE A RATIONAL COMPASSION
CHOOSE GROWTH
BALANCE
KNOW IT’S ALWAYS NOW
This is where the book is powerful.
Here is where the book is not. Taking away from his overall positive message is his overwhelming and seething disdain for people who hold different beliefs ... this seems to be in conflict with some of the ideals of the framework, like loving selflessly and practicing positive reciprocity. Hard to do that when one expresses so much disdain for the "other."
He also has a fairly simplistic understanding of the reason for the biblical ten commandments. He doesn't cast them in their original context and therefore loses a lot of the reasoning behind the intent. For example he seems to minimize coveting—the act of desiring something someone else possesses—when under the surface, coveting can lead to discontentment, jealousy, entitlement, anger, and eventually murder … so it's actually a big deal. To ignore the ramifications is not looking deep enough and missing the goal of another postulate, "finding perspective."
I gather that this is the least appealing conversation the Mr. Miller would entertain.
The biblical ten are about placing the self in the correct life context (see finding perspective, above); the point is that you are not autonomous, but must position one's self in relation to God or creation, nature, your origins (family), your immediate relationships, and society. I don't personally believe they were meant to be comprehensive, but serve as a base from which to build life experiences from the proper understanding of one's orientation to God and others. So they, like Mr. Miller's ten, are a good starting place.
January 10, 2022
XXXXX
It is our duty to make the most of our lives!!
XXXXX
“This book is a foundational framework for who you should be on a daily basis. It is a set of ten ideas that work together and build upon each other in order for you to lead a more abundant, fulfilling, and meaningful life. These commandments represent ten of humanity’s best ideas.”
The above quote (in italics) comes from the beginning of this slim but interesting, self-published book by James Miller. He was a Medevac pilot and world traveller and is now an author, philosopher, and entrepreneur.
Several alternatives to the Ten Commandments have been promoted by different persons (and groups), which intended to improve on the list of laws known as the Ten Commandments that appear in the Bible. Lists of these exist in many different cultures and times.
I personally favour the lists of Richard Dawkins (ethnologist, evolutionary biologist, and author), the late Christopher Hichens (journalist and author), and the late Bertrand Russell (philosopher, logician, mathematician, and Nobel Laureate).
Now I can add one more favourite: this list by James Miller who has dedicated his life to helping people find fulfilment WITHOUT taking anything on faith.
What I especially liked about this book is that it combines the best of history, philosophy, science, and, yes, even religion into powerful principles that anyone can incorporate into their life.
Finally, another thing I liked about this book is that each main chapter begins with a list of relevant quotations from great thinkers. For example, chapter one begins with quotations from Gandhi. Bill Gates, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and Hemingway.
In conclusion, this is a profound book of maximizing personal fulfillment through the application of humanities enduring wisdom!!
[2017; the birth of a book (vii–x); clearing the path (xi-xxviii); the commandments (summarized); 10 chapters; epilogue; main narrative 65 pages; so…what now?…what comes next?; bibliography; references]
XXXXX
It is our duty to make the most of our lives!!
XXXXX
“This book is a foundational framework for who you should be on a daily basis. It is a set of ten ideas that work together and build upon each other in order for you to lead a more abundant, fulfilling, and meaningful life. These commandments represent ten of humanity’s best ideas.”
The above quote (in italics) comes from the beginning of this slim but interesting, self-published book by James Miller. He was a Medevac pilot and world traveller and is now an author, philosopher, and entrepreneur.
Several alternatives to the Ten Commandments have been promoted by different persons (and groups), which intended to improve on the list of laws known as the Ten Commandments that appear in the Bible. Lists of these exist in many different cultures and times.
I personally favour the lists of Richard Dawkins (ethnologist, evolutionary biologist, and author), the late Christopher Hichens (journalist and author), and the late Bertrand Russell (philosopher, logician, mathematician, and Nobel Laureate).
Now I can add one more favourite: this list by James Miller who has dedicated his life to helping people find fulfilment WITHOUT taking anything on faith.
What I especially liked about this book is that it combines the best of history, philosophy, science, and, yes, even religion into powerful principles that anyone can incorporate into their life.
Finally, another thing I liked about this book is that each main chapter begins with a list of relevant quotations from great thinkers. For example, chapter one begins with quotations from Gandhi. Bill Gates, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and Hemingway.
In conclusion, this is a profound book of maximizing personal fulfillment through the application of humanities enduring wisdom!!
[2017; the birth of a book (vii–x); clearing the path (xi-xxviii); the commandments (summarized); 10 chapters; epilogue; main narrative 65 pages; so…what now?…what comes next?; bibliography; references]
XXXXX
November 24, 2019
This is a re-read for me. This book makes such great sense. It is my philosophy. I will keep re-reading it in hopes I will perfect it one day.
June 19, 2018
Challenging us to ...
Grow mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually
(Page xxviii)
Using the wit and wisdom of sources as diverse as Mahatma Gandhi, Bill Gates, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius and Ernest Hemingway (and that's only the first 'commandment'/chapter). Whilst, as he readily admits in his introduction, most of the ideas contained are not new ... or even his. However ...
Formulated in such a way as to offer an alternative perspective that isn't deity driven. Argue or disagree, if nothing else, the author's Better(?) Ten Commandments, as arguably provocative as it may be, provides some food for thought.
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer: Received from the author with thanks, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
Grow mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually
(Page xxviii)
Using the wit and wisdom of sources as diverse as Mahatma Gandhi, Bill Gates, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius and Ernest Hemingway (and that's only the first 'commandment'/chapter). Whilst, as he readily admits in his introduction, most of the ideas contained are not new ... or even his. However ...
Formulated in such a way as to offer an alternative perspective that isn't deity driven. Argue or disagree, if nothing else, the author's Better(?) Ten Commandments, as arguably provocative as it may be, provides some food for thought.
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer: Received from the author with thanks, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews