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Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers
How to Flourish: An Ancient Guide to Living Well
Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics is one of the greatest guides to human flourishing ever written, but its length and style have left many readers languishing. How to Flourish is a colloquial new translation by Susan Sauve Meyer that makes Aristotle's timeless insights about how to lead a good life more engaging and accessible than ever before.
For Aristotle, flourishing involves becoming a good person through practice, and having a life of the mind. To that end, he draws vivid portraits of virtuous and vicious characters and offers sound practical advice about everything from eating and drinking to managing money, controlling anger, getting along with others, and telling jokes. He also distinguishes different kinds of wisdom that are essential to flourishing and offers an unusual perspective on how to appreciate our place in the universe and our relation to the divine.
Omitting Aristotle's digressions and repetitions and overly technical passages, How to Flourish provides connecting commentary that allows listeners to follow the continuous line of his thought. The result is an inviting and lively version of an essential work about how to flourish and lead a good life.
For Aristotle, flourishing involves becoming a good person through practice, and having a life of the mind. To that end, he draws vivid portraits of virtuous and vicious characters and offers sound practical advice about everything from eating and drinking to managing money, controlling anger, getting along with others, and telling jokes. He also distinguishes different kinds of wisdom that are essential to flourishing and offers an unusual perspective on how to appreciate our place in the universe and our relation to the divine.
Omitting Aristotle's digressions and repetitions and overly technical passages, How to Flourish provides connecting commentary that allows listeners to follow the continuous line of his thought. The result is an inviting and lively version of an essential work about how to flourish and lead a good life.
328 pages, Hardcover
Published June 20, 2023
78 people are currently reading
524 people want to read
About the author
Aristotle
4,338 books5,643 followersAristotle (Greek: Αριστοτέλης; 384–322 BC) was an Ancient Greek philosopher and polymath. His writings cover a broad range of subjects spanning the natural sciences, philosophy, linguistics, economics, politics, psychology, and the arts. As the founder of the Peripatetic school of philosophy in the Lyceum in Athens, he began the wider Aristotelian tradition that followed, which set the groundwork for the development of modern science.
Little is known about Aristotle's life. He was born in the city of Stagira in northern Greece during the Classical period. His father, Nicomachus, died when Aristotle was a child, and he was brought up by a guardian. At 17 or 18, he joined Plato's Academy in Athens and remained there until the age of 37 (c. 347 BC). Shortly after Plato died, Aristotle left Athens and, at the request of Philip II of Macedon, tutored his son Alexander the Great beginning in 343 BC. He established a library in the Lyceum, which helped him to produce many of his hundreds of books on papyrus scrolls.
Though Aristotle wrote many treatises and dialogues for publication, only around a third of his original output has survived, none of it intended for publication. Aristotle provided a complex synthesis of the various philosophies existing prior to him. His teachings and methods of inquiry have had a significant impact across the world, and remain a subject of contemporary philosophical discussion.
Aristotle's views profoundly shaped medieval scholarship. The influence of his physical science extended from late antiquity and the Early Middle Ages into the Renaissance, and was not replaced systematically until the Enlightenment and theories such as classical mechanics were developed. He influenced Judeo-Islamic philosophies during the Middle Ages, as well as Christian theology, especially the Neoplatonism of the Early Church and the scholastic tradition of the Catholic Church.
Aristotle was revered among medieval Muslim scholars as "The First Teacher", and among medieval Christians like Thomas Aquinas as simply "The Philosopher", while the poet Dante Alighieri called him "the master of those who know". His works contain the earliest known formal study of logic, and were studied by medieval scholars such as Pierre Abélard and Jean Buridan. Aristotle's influence on logic continued well into the 19th century. In addition, his ethics, although always influential, gained renewed interest with the modern advent of virtue ethics.
Little is known about Aristotle's life. He was born in the city of Stagira in northern Greece during the Classical period. His father, Nicomachus, died when Aristotle was a child, and he was brought up by a guardian. At 17 or 18, he joined Plato's Academy in Athens and remained there until the age of 37 (c. 347 BC). Shortly after Plato died, Aristotle left Athens and, at the request of Philip II of Macedon, tutored his son Alexander the Great beginning in 343 BC. He established a library in the Lyceum, which helped him to produce many of his hundreds of books on papyrus scrolls.
Though Aristotle wrote many treatises and dialogues for publication, only around a third of his original output has survived, none of it intended for publication. Aristotle provided a complex synthesis of the various philosophies existing prior to him. His teachings and methods of inquiry have had a significant impact across the world, and remain a subject of contemporary philosophical discussion.
Aristotle's views profoundly shaped medieval scholarship. The influence of his physical science extended from late antiquity and the Early Middle Ages into the Renaissance, and was not replaced systematically until the Enlightenment and theories such as classical mechanics were developed. He influenced Judeo-Islamic philosophies during the Middle Ages, as well as Christian theology, especially the Neoplatonism of the Early Church and the scholastic tradition of the Catholic Church.
Aristotle was revered among medieval Muslim scholars as "The First Teacher", and among medieval Christians like Thomas Aquinas as simply "The Philosopher", while the poet Dante Alighieri called him "the master of those who know". His works contain the earliest known formal study of logic, and were studied by medieval scholars such as Pierre Abélard and Jean Buridan. Aristotle's influence on logic continued well into the 19th century. In addition, his ethics, although always influential, gained renewed interest with the modern advent of virtue ethics.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 25, 2025
Very good read! A lot of good quotes to take and ideas to think about. Definitely read more than one time to get the full effect of the book. Take what you understand and inquire what you do not.
February 13, 2024
I have heard people talking about Aristotle's definition of "the good life" and was curious to know more about it. This is a very condensed version of his Nicomachean Ethics, and according to the introduction it is a secular version of The Sermon on the Mount. (Blessedness being equated to flourishing)
I found the whole thing fascinating, especially his emphasis on a virtuous life as essential to human thriving. Would it be fair to say that the Greeks recognized the need for virtue, but that Christianity made it actually possible to be virtuous? Lots to ponder.
I found the whole thing fascinating, especially his emphasis on a virtuous life as essential to human thriving. Would it be fair to say that the Greeks recognized the need for virtue, but that Christianity made it actually possible to be virtuous? Lots to ponder.
July 15, 2025
This book was difficult for me to get through. Because it’s translated from so many languages, some of the sentence structures were hard to comprehend or repetitive. I definitely learned something about living a virtuous life and the importance of friendship, hobbies, and staying curious.
My favorite part of the book is Aristotle’s breakdown of the soul. I enjoyed the concept of the soul must be fueled from within oneself; that being through curiosity, practicing good judgement, etc.
My favorite part of the book is Aristotle’s breakdown of the soul. I enjoyed the concept of the soul must be fueled from within oneself; that being through curiosity, practicing good judgement, etc.
August 15, 2025
My favorite book in the series so far 🧡
April 11, 2024
An abridged edition of the Nicomachean Ethics. Will serve as a useful resource.
Read
April 30, 2024Would recommend if you’re into old texts. Not as much instructions on how to flourish as I would have liked it. But there are some solid quotes in it.
July 29, 2025
Everytime I read every single page in this book, it also reminds me for being a totally human.
The very first chapter of this book will introduce you about happiness—the root of life. I also take some notes about it. Eudaimonia is a Greek’s mythology. It is rendered into English as “happiness”. But this cost of potential confusion. In English (this era) → happiness tend to have in mind a feeling of contentment or pleasure. But, in Greek speaker of Aristotle’s era, eudaimonia is a word to say that someone’s life is going well, without specifying what it is about the life that makes it a good one.
A goal pursued for itself is more final than a goal pursued because of another thing, and what is never chosen because of something else is more final than the things chosen for themselves and because of it. Perfectly final is always chosen for itself and never because of another thing.
One of the most interesting topic in this book is about "what does a human being do?" — this means, what sort of activity is characteristically human? And Aristotle answer it with some example of life. Happiness is the same as “doing well”. So, if Aristotle can identify what it is that humans do, he can conclude that doing it well is what human happiness consists in life. Aretē → translated to be “virtue” (now). In English, virtue used for moral goodness, but Aretē is much wider notion for Aristotle and can refer to the goodness of anything. The human good turns out to be activity of the soul that comes from virtue. Human doesn’t attribute happiness to an animal, since animal are incapable of engaging in the kind of actions that good people perform. Children are not happy either—since they are not yet capable of performing those “action” (this refers to happiness) because of their age.
If we call them “happy”, it is on the expectation that they will be.
In another side, there's some perspective that debatable. Happiness requires both complete virtue and a complete life. Does it right to say that people must look to the end, and call no person happy while they are alive? If so, does that mean people are happy when they are dead? The point is: can we safely declare a person happy, because they are outside the reach of evils and misfortunes—even that is open to dispute?
We learn about life, happiness, and the dimensions around it.
The very first chapter of this book will introduce you about happiness—the root of life. I also take some notes about it. Eudaimonia is a Greek’s mythology. It is rendered into English as “happiness”. But this cost of potential confusion. In English (this era) → happiness tend to have in mind a feeling of contentment or pleasure. But, in Greek speaker of Aristotle’s era, eudaimonia is a word to say that someone’s life is going well, without specifying what it is about the life that makes it a good one.
A goal pursued for itself is more final than a goal pursued because of another thing, and what is never chosen because of something else is more final than the things chosen for themselves and because of it. Perfectly final is always chosen for itself and never because of another thing.
One of the most interesting topic in this book is about "what does a human being do?" — this means, what sort of activity is characteristically human? And Aristotle answer it with some example of life. Happiness is the same as “doing well”. So, if Aristotle can identify what it is that humans do, he can conclude that doing it well is what human happiness consists in life. Aretē → translated to be “virtue” (now). In English, virtue used for moral goodness, but Aretē is much wider notion for Aristotle and can refer to the goodness of anything. The human good turns out to be activity of the soul that comes from virtue. Human doesn’t attribute happiness to an animal, since animal are incapable of engaging in the kind of actions that good people perform. Children are not happy either—since they are not yet capable of performing those “action” (this refers to happiness) because of their age.
If we call them “happy”, it is on the expectation that they will be.
In another side, there's some perspective that debatable. Happiness requires both complete virtue and a complete life. Does it right to say that people must look to the end, and call no person happy while they are alive? If so, does that mean people are happy when they are dead? The point is: can we safely declare a person happy, because they are outside the reach of evils and misfortunes—even that is open to dispute?
We learn about life, happiness, and the dimensions around it.
March 7, 2025
Aristotle, worth the read and study. He seems to want too much to reduce life to a set of algorithms, but its worth laboring through them anyway.
Memorable Quotes
1. “We call some virtues virtues of intellect, and others virtues of character. Being learned or discerning or having good judgment are virtues of intellect while generosity and self-discipline are virtues of character.” (35)
2. “So the virtues don’t develop in us by nature, and they are not contrary to our nature either. We are naturally open to acquiring them, but it is by practicing that we reach our full development...by doing justice we become just, by acting with discipline we develop self-discipline, and by performing brave acts we develop bravery.” (39)
3. “In short, our dispositions will be of the same sort as the activities from which they develop. Our activities, therefore, need to be of the right sort, since the caliber of the disciplines will depend on the activities. That is why it makes no small difference how we get used to acting from an early age. Indeed, it makes all the difference in the world.” (41-43)
4. “...when we exercise the virtues, we perform the same kind of actions as produce, increase, or even destroy them...For example, by refraining from pleasures we develop self-discipline, and once we have developed it, we are especially able to refrain from them.” (47)
5. “...someone trying to hit the mean (virtue) should first of all pull away from the extreme that is more opposed...because one of the two extremes is more gravely in error, the other less so. As for the best way to find out what you yourself are more susceptible to, since people naturally differ on this (you can identify what it is for you from the pleasures and pains that you feel). And then you need to pull yourself away in the opposite direction, since by pulling hard against one fault, you get to the mean...we must be especially on our guard against what we enjoy – that is, pleasure – since we are not impartial judges of it.” (71-73)
6. “Now, virtue involves both feelings and actions.” (77)
7. “If you have self-discipline, your appetitive part should follow your thinking part.” (131)
8. “Not every form of correctness in deliberation will be good deliberation. For example, if you lack self-control or are a bad person, you can still figure out how to accomplish your objective. You will have deliberated correctly, but secured a great evil. Deliberating well, however, is evidently something good; the deliberative correctness that is good deliberation is the sort that achieves good. However, it is possible to do so by faulty inference, and arrive at the right thing to do but through the wrong steps...so that that won’t count as good deliberation either...Also, it is possible to hit upon the right conclusion after taking a long time to deliberate, or to hit upon it quickly. The former does not count as good deliberation, which must be correct in having a beneficial result, arrived at through the right steps, in the right way, and at the right time.” (197) Good deliberation is methodical, well-organized, timely, and ethical.
9. “Furthermore, we perform at our best by exercising both good judgment and virtue of character. Virtue makes the goal correct, while good judgment makes our pursuit of it correct.” (203)
10. “...’when two go forth together’ they are mightier in thought and action.” (229; the quoted phrase is spoken by the Homeric hero Diomedes [Iliad 10.224] as he seeks a partner to accompany him on dangerous mission.)
11. “When the friends are good people of comparable virtue, their friendship is complete. They wish each other well, just insofar as they are good, and they are good in their own right. To wish your friend well for the friends’ own sake is friendship in the fullest sense...Friendship between people of this sort endures as long as the parties remain good, and virtue is an enduring thing.” (239)
12. “[Friendship] also takes time to develop and requires familiarity, since people can’t know each other until they have consumed together the proverbial quantity of salt. They will not find each other congenial or be friends until each is dear to and trusted by the other.” (241)
13. “Self-sufficiency does not require excess...” (271)
14. “Solon was right to define happy people as those who had moderate resources, performed...the finest actions, and practiced self-control throughout their lives. It seems that people who exercise their intellect and look after it are in the best condition and most beloved by the gods.” (271 & D&C 93:36)
Essential Notes
1. Eudaimonia may be best translated as “flourishing,” since it suggests a more robust standard for well-being, fulfillment of potential. We achieve eudaimonia by fulfilling our potential as human beings. (xiv)
2. A life of eudaimonia may contain pleasures, but what makes it eudaemon is not the pleasures but virtue. (281)
3. Happiness is an activity of the soul that comes from complete virtue. Therefore, to learn to be happy, we should investigate virtue. Socratic philosophy defined virtue as excellence. (29)
4. Virtue in anything, as a quality, will be destroyed either by excess or by deficiency. Every virtue has two corresponding vices, one of excess and one of deficiency. Hence Aristotle’s effort to identify the excess and the deficiency surrounding the optimum level of any virtue (e.g., generosity in excess is extravagance; in deficiency it is moneygrubbing). (45, 61, & 280)
Memorable Quotes
1. “We call some virtues virtues of intellect, and others virtues of character. Being learned or discerning or having good judgment are virtues of intellect while generosity and self-discipline are virtues of character.” (35)
2. “So the virtues don’t develop in us by nature, and they are not contrary to our nature either. We are naturally open to acquiring them, but it is by practicing that we reach our full development...by doing justice we become just, by acting with discipline we develop self-discipline, and by performing brave acts we develop bravery.” (39)
3. “In short, our dispositions will be of the same sort as the activities from which they develop. Our activities, therefore, need to be of the right sort, since the caliber of the disciplines will depend on the activities. That is why it makes no small difference how we get used to acting from an early age. Indeed, it makes all the difference in the world.” (41-43)
4. “...when we exercise the virtues, we perform the same kind of actions as produce, increase, or even destroy them...For example, by refraining from pleasures we develop self-discipline, and once we have developed it, we are especially able to refrain from them.” (47)
5. “...someone trying to hit the mean (virtue) should first of all pull away from the extreme that is more opposed...because one of the two extremes is more gravely in error, the other less so. As for the best way to find out what you yourself are more susceptible to, since people naturally differ on this (you can identify what it is for you from the pleasures and pains that you feel). And then you need to pull yourself away in the opposite direction, since by pulling hard against one fault, you get to the mean...we must be especially on our guard against what we enjoy – that is, pleasure – since we are not impartial judges of it.” (71-73)
6. “Now, virtue involves both feelings and actions.” (77)
7. “If you have self-discipline, your appetitive part should follow your thinking part.” (131)
8. “Not every form of correctness in deliberation will be good deliberation. For example, if you lack self-control or are a bad person, you can still figure out how to accomplish your objective. You will have deliberated correctly, but secured a great evil. Deliberating well, however, is evidently something good; the deliberative correctness that is good deliberation is the sort that achieves good. However, it is possible to do so by faulty inference, and arrive at the right thing to do but through the wrong steps...so that that won’t count as good deliberation either...Also, it is possible to hit upon the right conclusion after taking a long time to deliberate, or to hit upon it quickly. The former does not count as good deliberation, which must be correct in having a beneficial result, arrived at through the right steps, in the right way, and at the right time.” (197) Good deliberation is methodical, well-organized, timely, and ethical.
9. “Furthermore, we perform at our best by exercising both good judgment and virtue of character. Virtue makes the goal correct, while good judgment makes our pursuit of it correct.” (203)
10. “...’when two go forth together’ they are mightier in thought and action.” (229; the quoted phrase is spoken by the Homeric hero Diomedes [Iliad 10.224] as he seeks a partner to accompany him on dangerous mission.)
11. “When the friends are good people of comparable virtue, their friendship is complete. They wish each other well, just insofar as they are good, and they are good in their own right. To wish your friend well for the friends’ own sake is friendship in the fullest sense...Friendship between people of this sort endures as long as the parties remain good, and virtue is an enduring thing.” (239)
12. “[Friendship] also takes time to develop and requires familiarity, since people can’t know each other until they have consumed together the proverbial quantity of salt. They will not find each other congenial or be friends until each is dear to and trusted by the other.” (241)
13. “Self-sufficiency does not require excess...” (271)
14. “Solon was right to define happy people as those who had moderate resources, performed...the finest actions, and practiced self-control throughout their lives. It seems that people who exercise their intellect and look after it are in the best condition and most beloved by the gods.” (271 & D&C 93:36)
Essential Notes
1. Eudaimonia may be best translated as “flourishing,” since it suggests a more robust standard for well-being, fulfillment of potential. We achieve eudaimonia by fulfilling our potential as human beings. (xiv)
2. A life of eudaimonia may contain pleasures, but what makes it eudaemon is not the pleasures but virtue. (281)
3. Happiness is an activity of the soul that comes from complete virtue. Therefore, to learn to be happy, we should investigate virtue. Socratic philosophy defined virtue as excellence. (29)
4. Virtue in anything, as a quality, will be destroyed either by excess or by deficiency. Every virtue has two corresponding vices, one of excess and one of deficiency. Hence Aristotle’s effort to identify the excess and the deficiency surrounding the optimum level of any virtue (e.g., generosity in excess is extravagance; in deficiency it is moneygrubbing). (45, 61, & 280)
September 1, 2024
A great condensed version of Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, with an interesting perspective of what truly may bring the human life “happiness.” The many concepts that may have influenced later Biblical interpretations of virtues were particularly interesting to note, and much more flushed out.
Just before reading the book, I had an earlier conversation with my partner on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the stage of self-actualization. It tied in perfectly with Aristotle’s belief that intellect above all else, and the pursuit thereof, is/should be the source of a flourishing life, surpassing all the virtues of character, appetitive and emotional parts of the soul, etc.
Just before reading the book, I had an earlier conversation with my partner on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the stage of self-actualization. It tied in perfectly with Aristotle’s belief that intellect above all else, and the pursuit thereof, is/should be the source of a flourishing life, surpassing all the virtues of character, appetitive and emotional parts of the soul, etc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2025
Just an abridged version of the nicomachean ethics.
July 6, 2025
“we engage in bad acts because of pleasure and refrain from noble ones because of pain.”
April 26, 2024
This is definitely an abridgment, almost more of an overview or introduction to Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics. But it’s served its purpose - I will now try to finish After Virtue and am eager to dive into the unabridged Ethics hopefully in the not-too-distant future.
March 2, 2025
Some books should be read like you drink a slow, rich espresso: sipping attentively, allowing the flavors to linger. "How to Flourish: An Ancient Guide to Living Well" is such a book. It takes you to the core of Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics, but packaged in a way that doesn't shout "I AM IMPORTANT," but rather whispers: "Come, let's talk about what truly matters." Not a dry translation, but a vibrant guide that makes Aristotle's ideas about 'the good life' dance between the lines.
The book begins with a question that keeps you awake at night: "What is the purpose of our existence?" In other words; the Big Question: What is This Life Actually About? Aristotle's answer: happiness (eudaimonia). But not the kind of happiness that depends on winning the lottery or having a good day. No, this happiness revolves around rational action—living according to what makes us human. Think: reflecting, making choices, growing. The writer doesn't explain this as if you need to memorize a lesson, but as if you're sitting together at a kitchen table.
"Okay, but how?" I hear you thinking. That's precisely the strength of this book. It unravels philosophical concepts without dissecting them to death. It's as if someone dumps a jigsaw puzzle in front of you and then says: "Calm down, we'll just start with the corners."
In "Building Character," you learn: virtue isn't a talent, but a skillset. You become brave by doing brave things, just by acting justly. The secret? The golden mean. Not too fearful, not too reckless. Just as your muscles don't grow from sitting on the couch 24/7 or doing non-stop CrossFit, it's all about balance. Aristotle's advice sounds like a mix between a life hack and a pep talk: "Your character isn't a fixed fact. It's a project. And yes, you're the contractor." Not a wagging finger, but a gentle nudge: "Try. Fail. Try again." And: Just Do It!
This is where it gets exciting: "Taking Responsibility" addresses free will. Are we responsible for our behavior, or are we puppets of our circumstances? According to Aristotle: a mix. External factors play a role, but ultimately you choose how to respond. It feels as if he's saying: "You can't choose which storm comes, but you can choose how to hoist your sail." Perfect for a time when we like to point to algorithms, upbringing, or capitalism. Useful for group chat discussions about blame and excuses.
In "Friendship and the Good Life," Aristotle explains that there are three types of friends:
- Useful (like that colleague who helps you move... because he wants to borrow your car).
- Fun (the person with whom you exchange memes until 3 a.m.).
- Virtuous (people who challenge you to become better, even when it feels uncomfortable).
Only the latter brings true satisfaction. The book makes clear: friendship isn't a luxury, but a vitamin for your soul.
Relatable: knowing what's good, but still not doing it. Aristotle calls this akrasia (weakness of will). The chapter "Losing Control" explains why we sometimes go against ourselves—and how to overcome it. Spoiler: it has to do with habits, not willpower. Compare it to dieting: "No, you're not weak because you ate that chocolate. Your system is just set to 'survive in prehistoric times'." Modern psychology meets 2300-year-old philosophy.
Conclusion: A Manual For People Who Want to Flourish (No Cactus Comparisons)
"How to Flourish" is not a quick self-help pill. It's an invitation to reflect, doubt, and slowly grow. As if Aristotle sits down beside you with a notebook and says: "Let's figure out together what a good life means for you."
Why read this book?
If you find philosophy boring: no dust clouds here, just clear ideas.
If you think: "How do I actually live?" but don't want vague answers.
If you occasionally feel that life is an IKEA cabinet without instructions.
Note: some sections you'll need to reread. Not because they're vague, but because they have so many layers. Just like good coffee or a conversation that continues to resonate.
Final verdict: A book that takes Aristotle off his pedestal and places him next to you on the couch. Challenging? Certainly. Worth it? Absolutely. Because as the old Greek himself would say: "The good life is not a destination, but a journey—and this is your compass."
(By the way, this isn't a sponsored post. But if the publisher sends me a free copy, I won't say no. For virtue's sake, of course.) 🌱
The book begins with a question that keeps you awake at night: "What is the purpose of our existence?" In other words; the Big Question: What is This Life Actually About? Aristotle's answer: happiness (eudaimonia). But not the kind of happiness that depends on winning the lottery or having a good day. No, this happiness revolves around rational action—living according to what makes us human. Think: reflecting, making choices, growing. The writer doesn't explain this as if you need to memorize a lesson, but as if you're sitting together at a kitchen table.
"Okay, but how?" I hear you thinking. That's precisely the strength of this book. It unravels philosophical concepts without dissecting them to death. It's as if someone dumps a jigsaw puzzle in front of you and then says: "Calm down, we'll just start with the corners."
In "Building Character," you learn: virtue isn't a talent, but a skillset. You become brave by doing brave things, just by acting justly. The secret? The golden mean. Not too fearful, not too reckless. Just as your muscles don't grow from sitting on the couch 24/7 or doing non-stop CrossFit, it's all about balance. Aristotle's advice sounds like a mix between a life hack and a pep talk: "Your character isn't a fixed fact. It's a project. And yes, you're the contractor." Not a wagging finger, but a gentle nudge: "Try. Fail. Try again." And: Just Do It!
This is where it gets exciting: "Taking Responsibility" addresses free will. Are we responsible for our behavior, or are we puppets of our circumstances? According to Aristotle: a mix. External factors play a role, but ultimately you choose how to respond. It feels as if he's saying: "You can't choose which storm comes, but you can choose how to hoist your sail." Perfect for a time when we like to point to algorithms, upbringing, or capitalism. Useful for group chat discussions about blame and excuses.
In "Friendship and the Good Life," Aristotle explains that there are three types of friends:
- Useful (like that colleague who helps you move... because he wants to borrow your car).
- Fun (the person with whom you exchange memes until 3 a.m.).
- Virtuous (people who challenge you to become better, even when it feels uncomfortable).
Only the latter brings true satisfaction. The book makes clear: friendship isn't a luxury, but a vitamin for your soul.
Relatable: knowing what's good, but still not doing it. Aristotle calls this akrasia (weakness of will). The chapter "Losing Control" explains why we sometimes go against ourselves—and how to overcome it. Spoiler: it has to do with habits, not willpower. Compare it to dieting: "No, you're not weak because you ate that chocolate. Your system is just set to 'survive in prehistoric times'." Modern psychology meets 2300-year-old philosophy.
Conclusion: A Manual For People Who Want to Flourish (No Cactus Comparisons)
"How to Flourish" is not a quick self-help pill. It's an invitation to reflect, doubt, and slowly grow. As if Aristotle sits down beside you with a notebook and says: "Let's figure out together what a good life means for you."
Why read this book?
If you find philosophy boring: no dust clouds here, just clear ideas.
If you think: "How do I actually live?" but don't want vague answers.
If you occasionally feel that life is an IKEA cabinet without instructions.
Note: some sections you'll need to reread. Not because they're vague, but because they have so many layers. Just like good coffee or a conversation that continues to resonate.
Final verdict: A book that takes Aristotle off his pedestal and places him next to you on the couch. Challenging? Certainly. Worth it? Absolutely. Because as the old Greek himself would say: "The good life is not a destination, but a journey—and this is your compass."
(By the way, this isn't a sponsored post. But if the publisher sends me a free copy, I won't say no. For virtue's sake, of course.) 🌱
March 28, 2024
In "How to Flourish: An Ancient Guide to Living Well," Susan Sauvé Meyer provides readers with a captivating exploration of Aristotle's timeless wisdom on the art of living a fulfilling life. Through her translation, Meyer renders Aristotle's profound insights accessible to modern readers, offering a fresh perspective on age-old teachings.
At the heart of Aristotle's philosophy is the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as "flourishing" or "living well." Aristotle argues that the ultimate goal of human life is to achieve eudaimonia, which he describes as a state of flourishing that arises from living in accordance with virtue and reason. Meyer adeptly conveys Aristotle's emphasis on the cultivation of virtue as essential for achieving eudaimonia, highlighting virtues such as courage, temperance, and wisdom as pillars of a fulfilling life.
Throughout the book, Meyer explores Aristotle's ideas on various aspects of human existence, from the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships to the pursuit of intellectual and moral excellence. Drawing from Aristotle's works such as the Nicomachean Ethics and the Politics, Meyer elucidates Aristotle's nuanced understanding of human nature and society, offering readers valuable insights into the complexities of the human condition.
One of the central themes in Aristotle's philosophy is the idea of the "golden mean," which suggests that virtue lies in finding the right balance between extremes. Meyer unpacks this concept, illustrating how Aristotle encourages individuals to navigate life's challenges with moderation and prudence, avoiding both excess and deficiency.
Moreover, Meyer explores Aristotle's ideas on the role of pleasure, friendship, and contemplation in the pursuit of eudaimonia, shedding light on Aristotle's holistic approach to well-being. By delving into these themes, Meyer invites readers to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can incorporate Aristotle's wisdom into their daily practices.
In "How to Flourish," Meyer not only provides a faithful translation of Aristotle's teachings but also offers insightful commentary that enriches readers' understanding of his philosophy. Meyer's commentary serves as a guide, helping readers navigate Aristotle's dense prose and extract practical wisdom that is relevant to contemporary life.
Overall, "How to Flourish: An Ancient Guide to Living Well" translated by Susan Sauvé Meyer is a thought-provoking exploration of Aristotle's philosophy, offering readers a roadmap to a life of virtue, fulfilment, and flourishing. Through her insightful commentary and clear translation, Meyer brings Aristotle's timeless wisdom to life, demonstrating its enduring relevance in today's world. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking guidance on how to live a meaningful and flourishing life.
At the heart of Aristotle's philosophy is the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as "flourishing" or "living well." Aristotle argues that the ultimate goal of human life is to achieve eudaimonia, which he describes as a state of flourishing that arises from living in accordance with virtue and reason. Meyer adeptly conveys Aristotle's emphasis on the cultivation of virtue as essential for achieving eudaimonia, highlighting virtues such as courage, temperance, and wisdom as pillars of a fulfilling life.
Throughout the book, Meyer explores Aristotle's ideas on various aspects of human existence, from the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships to the pursuit of intellectual and moral excellence. Drawing from Aristotle's works such as the Nicomachean Ethics and the Politics, Meyer elucidates Aristotle's nuanced understanding of human nature and society, offering readers valuable insights into the complexities of the human condition.
One of the central themes in Aristotle's philosophy is the idea of the "golden mean," which suggests that virtue lies in finding the right balance between extremes. Meyer unpacks this concept, illustrating how Aristotle encourages individuals to navigate life's challenges with moderation and prudence, avoiding both excess and deficiency.
Moreover, Meyer explores Aristotle's ideas on the role of pleasure, friendship, and contemplation in the pursuit of eudaimonia, shedding light on Aristotle's holistic approach to well-being. By delving into these themes, Meyer invites readers to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can incorporate Aristotle's wisdom into their daily practices.
In "How to Flourish," Meyer not only provides a faithful translation of Aristotle's teachings but also offers insightful commentary that enriches readers' understanding of his philosophy. Meyer's commentary serves as a guide, helping readers navigate Aristotle's dense prose and extract practical wisdom that is relevant to contemporary life.
Overall, "How to Flourish: An Ancient Guide to Living Well" translated by Susan Sauvé Meyer is a thought-provoking exploration of Aristotle's philosophy, offering readers a roadmap to a life of virtue, fulfilment, and flourishing. Through her insightful commentary and clear translation, Meyer brings Aristotle's timeless wisdom to life, demonstrating its enduring relevance in today's world. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking guidance on how to live a meaningful and flourishing life.
November 23, 2024
I've now read seven volumes in the "Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers" series. Overall, I continue to enjoy reading them. Each entry reinforces my belief that - although it's not necessarily a popular view right now - many "dead white males" still have important lessons to teach anyone willing to learn them.
Having said that, this entry was not one of my favorites. Although the translator tries to bring Aristotle's famous work into the 21st Century, she's not always successful. That's no fault of hers - Aristotle's writing is one of the less reader-friendly sources we have from ancient times.
But I commend her for trying to do the following (from the jacket description):
"Aristotle’s 'Nicomachean Ethics' is one of the greatest guides to human flourishing ever written, but its length and style have left many readers languishing. 'How to Flourish' is a carefully abridged version of the entire work in a highly readable and colloquial new translation by Susan Sauvé Meyer that makes Aristotle’s timeless insights about how to lead a good life more engaging and accessible than ever before.
For Aristotle, flourishing involves becoming a good person through practice, and having a life of the mind. To that end, he draws vivid portraits of virtuous and vicious characters and offers sound practical advice about everything from eating and drinking to managing money, controlling anger, getting along with others, and telling jokes. He also distinguishes different kinds of wisdom that are essential to flourishing and offers an unusual perspective on how to appreciate our place in the universe and our relation to the divine.
Omitting Aristotle’s digressions and repetitions and overly technical passages, 'How to Flourish' provides connecting commentary that allows readers to follow the continuous line of his thought; it also features the original Greek on facing pages. The result is an inviting and lively version of an essential work about how to flourish and lead a good life."
Ultimately, this is a Herculean task. But unlike that hero from antiquity, I'm not sure she succeeds. (Again, through no fault of her own.)
Having said that, this entry was not one of my favorites. Although the translator tries to bring Aristotle's famous work into the 21st Century, she's not always successful. That's no fault of hers - Aristotle's writing is one of the less reader-friendly sources we have from ancient times.
But I commend her for trying to do the following (from the jacket description):
"Aristotle’s 'Nicomachean Ethics' is one of the greatest guides to human flourishing ever written, but its length and style have left many readers languishing. 'How to Flourish' is a carefully abridged version of the entire work in a highly readable and colloquial new translation by Susan Sauvé Meyer that makes Aristotle’s timeless insights about how to lead a good life more engaging and accessible than ever before.
For Aristotle, flourishing involves becoming a good person through practice, and having a life of the mind. To that end, he draws vivid portraits of virtuous and vicious characters and offers sound practical advice about everything from eating and drinking to managing money, controlling anger, getting along with others, and telling jokes. He also distinguishes different kinds of wisdom that are essential to flourishing and offers an unusual perspective on how to appreciate our place in the universe and our relation to the divine.
Omitting Aristotle’s digressions and repetitions and overly technical passages, 'How to Flourish' provides connecting commentary that allows readers to follow the continuous line of his thought; it also features the original Greek on facing pages. The result is an inviting and lively version of an essential work about how to flourish and lead a good life."
Ultimately, this is a Herculean task. But unlike that hero from antiquity, I'm not sure she succeeds. (Again, through no fault of her own.)
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January 14, 2024How To Flourish by the Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, is a compilation of teachings taken from a larger text called nichomachean ethics. How To Flourish encompass human virtues such as friendship,love,generosity, and temperance and how living a virtuous life translates to happiness and fulfillment. Flourishing, in Aristotle's view is the highest epitome of being that all living creatures can strive for. Some compare it to happiness but it differs. Aristotle refers to “the human good” simply put, the goal in all human activity as part of something larger that we all contribute to. This “goodness” is all around us. For example, both a chef in a kitchen and a general at war are masters of their art. They both work towards something greater for all humanity even if they have nothing to do with each other. When humans come together for the betterment of mankind Aristotle refers to this with the Greek word Teleion. Aristotle continually stresses the importance of creating goals for yourself and not for the sake of others. A goal achieved for the sake of the goal is the purest reason to have one. By far the most prevalent lesson that I’ve taken from this book is that being a virtuous person means striking the mean. For example virtue is a lot like a plane of behavior, on one side is the deficit on the other is the excess. A virtuous person is brave but not overly cocky and reckless. On the other end of that spectrum you should not be a coward. You can be charitable but you must not be overly generous or too money grubbing. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who’s at all curious about philosophy. 8.5/10
September 25, 2023
Though it has 302 pages, this is actually quite a short book. It consists of an interconnected series of excerpts from Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics amounting to about 25 percent of the whole. Susan Sauve Meyer did the selection and translation, and provided a helpful introduction and appendices, consisting of diagrams of the human soul and the human virtues. She gives brief summaries of omitted material, enabling one to have an overview of the entire text.
This is a wonderful resource for general readers wanting first-hand aquaintance with this primary text of Western Philosophy. Those who would like further explanation or involvement with its topics are given good suggestions for complete translations.
One baffling feature: the original Ancient Greek is given on the left-hand pages; translation and explanatory passages are then given on the right-hand pages. Who exactly is this for? Scholars capable of understanding the Greek will be interested in the full text. General readers, on the other hand, won't be able to read it.
This is a wonderful resource for general readers wanting first-hand aquaintance with this primary text of Western Philosophy. Those who would like further explanation or involvement with its topics are given good suggestions for complete translations.
One baffling feature: the original Ancient Greek is given on the left-hand pages; translation and explanatory passages are then given on the right-hand pages. Who exactly is this for? Scholars capable of understanding the Greek will be interested in the full text. General readers, on the other hand, won't be able to read it.
February 13, 2025
Aristotle doesn't always make for an easy read, but I love this Meyer translation of his book Nicomachean Ethics. Published in 2023, this short book from Princeton is a modern translation that is also an abridgment. Those who have read Aristotle here know that he can often write with lots of redundancy. Meyer takes that out of this book, leaving the essence of Aristotle's main arguments in tact.
Some of my main takeaways: moderation is best. His observations on seeking the mean as virtuous are insightful and important.
Also, from my viewpoint as a Christian, I was interested in some overlaps I noticed in the book to Christian virtues.
Finally, I enjoyed his argument that the highest virtue is theoretical thinking. I noticed some conceptual overlap here with Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
Recommended to anyone interested in some of the foundational ideas behind Western thought on ethics.
Some of my main takeaways: moderation is best. His observations on seeking the mean as virtuous are insightful and important.
Also, from my viewpoint as a Christian, I was interested in some overlaps I noticed in the book to Christian virtues.
Finally, I enjoyed his argument that the highest virtue is theoretical thinking. I noticed some conceptual overlap here with Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
Recommended to anyone interested in some of the foundational ideas behind Western thought on ethics.
September 27, 2024
"And what we said earlier fits with what we are saying now, since what naturally belongs to something is best and most pleasant for it. In the case of a human being, that is a life of intellect—inasmuch as that is what a human being is most of all. So that life is the happiest."
I have read around a dozen volumes in this series, and this one may be my favourite. Part of that is the content of the Nicomachean Ethics itself, which is fascinating and thought-provoking. Of course I would maintain that eudaimonia is ultimately found elsewhere. But part of my appreciation of this volume in particular is Susan Sauvé Meyer's work in translating and editing the Nicomachean Ethics. I came to this volume wanting to be introduced to the work so that I can go on to read it in its entirety (this one contains about 25% of the complete work), and I now feel enabled to do so.
I have read around a dozen volumes in this series, and this one may be my favourite. Part of that is the content of the Nicomachean Ethics itself, which is fascinating and thought-provoking. Of course I would maintain that eudaimonia is ultimately found elsewhere. But part of my appreciation of this volume in particular is Susan Sauvé Meyer's work in translating and editing the Nicomachean Ethics. I came to this volume wanting to be introduced to the work so that I can go on to read it in its entirety (this one contains about 25% of the complete work), and I now feel enabled to do so.
November 18, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this introduction to Aristotle. His logic is easy to follow, and he leads his reader to think on human goodness, virtue, happiness, and the nature of the thinking soul. He argues that to really flourish we have to act well, and in order to act well we should think well. By using the theoretical and reasoning faculties of the mind we can choose what is the best action for ourselves, and through this action we build our character, or “ēthos”. He says that the goal of a human life is happiness, to be happy and make others happy. It is by philosophy, or loving wisdom and learning, that we can find “the good” and fulfill our human potential.
September 20, 2025
I'm reading this because of Charlie Kirk who loved to get into discussions about Greek philosophers, Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates. Never having gone to university, he had to study the greats on his own.
I didn't expect this to be so good. it was about Flourishing and having a happy life. The beatitudes of Jesus were based on this.
I loved the ending about the 3 loves of friendship based on Aristotles Nicomachean Ethics:
1) Friendships of utility, based on mutual benefit;
2) friendships of pleasure, based on shared enjoyment;
3) friendships of virtue, the perfect friendships, based on a mutual appreciation and having good character.
This is the greatest and most complete friendship.
I didn't expect this to be so good. it was about Flourishing and having a happy life. The beatitudes of Jesus were based on this.
I loved the ending about the 3 loves of friendship based on Aristotles Nicomachean Ethics:
1) Friendships of utility, based on mutual benefit;
2) friendships of pleasure, based on shared enjoyment;
3) friendships of virtue, the perfect friendships, based on a mutual appreciation and having good character.
This is the greatest and most complete friendship.
January 15, 2024
I will admit that I did not finish this book.
If you are into philosophy then this might be the book for you. A super cool feature is the fact that on the left side you have the text in Greek, on the right an English translation.
Attempts have been made to make the text understandable.
That being said I may have read to much modern self-help books for this book to be for me. The concept of the book is "How to Flourish" but I got through chapter three and was still trying to understand the slightest bit of how to do so.
If you are into philosophy then this might be the book for you. A super cool feature is the fact that on the left side you have the text in Greek, on the right an English translation.
Attempts have been made to make the text understandable.
That being said I may have read to much modern self-help books for this book to be for me. The concept of the book is "How to Flourish" but I got through chapter three and was still trying to understand the slightest bit of how to do so.
August 30, 2024
These Princeton Press Ancient Guide to Living Well books are philosophical comfort food! I’m starting to venture away from the Stoics and this is my first Aristotle. There are a few more to explore! Reading “How to Flourish” is like getting sprinkled with some ancient wisdom fairy dust. Just a small dash! Useful information was discovered but it does leave you wanting more. Outstanding charts and Aristotelian Glossary the end of the text.
July 16, 2023
Aristotle's writings on ethics for dummies. But good! I read parts of the Nicomachean Ethics on my own years ago and a lot of it sailed over my head. I liked the approach this volume takes, made for a nice easily digestible audiobook. Maybe slightly more dumbed down than I would have liked but not far off. Always amazing to find how relevant the old thinker are to modern questions.
September 28, 2023
I realize this is an abridged version so hypothetically should be more palatable, but overall my life was t changed. Aristotle thought deeply about what masked life meaningful and good and here are his thoughts. Can’t really say I buy it all. Is friendship required for happiness OF COURSE IT IS!
May 20, 2024
An introduction or summary rather to Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics.
Aristotle and his theories on human nature, logic, natural law, morality and happiness make appearances in How To Flourish. His philosophy was logical, yet abstract. You can read his rejections of Plato’s work throughout his text.
Fascinating and will revisit.
Aristotle and his theories on human nature, logic, natural law, morality and happiness make appearances in How To Flourish. His philosophy was logical, yet abstract. You can read his rejections of Plato’s work throughout his text.
Fascinating and will revisit.
September 6, 2024
Bit of a misleading title, this is an abridged shortened version of the Nicomachean Ethics. It's amazing work by Susan Sauvé Meyer, great translation, in-context notes and notes for further reading. Again, the book is misleadingly short due to half the pages being attributed to the original greek. But it's a good read
August 28, 2025
I found How to Flourish inspiring and full of practical insights. Some chapters really made me pause and reflect on my own life, and I appreciated how the author blends guidance with real-life examples. At times, it felt a bit repetitive, but overall, it’s a thoughtful read that encourages growth and self-awareness. Definitely worth reading if you want to explore ways to live more fully.
May 10, 2025
Great, short introduction to Aristotle's ethics. I was surprised at how readable this version was, how applicable his views are, and how well they fit in with a Christian worldview.
Great read for anyone interested in philosophy and ethics
Great read for anyone interested in philosophy and ethics
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