The Weight of Things

The Weight of Things explores the hard questions of our daily lives, examining both classic and contemporary accounts of what it means to lead 'the good life'. What does it mean to have a “good life”? Is it a matter of choice or chance? In this engaging book, author Jean Kazez asks the perennial philosophical questions about what we should place at the center of our lives. Incorporating the views of both past and present philosophers, as well as examples from history, literature, media, and the news, this concise introduction to ethics and philosophy offers a unique opportunity for personal reflection. Contemplating the importance of happiness, morality, self expression, desire, religion, and family, The Weight of Things invites the reader to explore the difficult questions in our daily lives. Topics are animated by a colorful cast of characters, including fourth-century hermits, The Matrix’s Neo, a Wal-Mart clerk, runaway slaves, and Lance Armstrong, among others. The Weight of Things is a fascinating and insightful search for answers. The Weight of Things explores the hard questions of our daily lives, examining both classic and contemporary accounts of what it means to lead 'the good life.' Looks at the views of philosophers such as Aristotle, the Stoics, Mill, Nietzsche, and Sartre as well as contributions from other traditions, such as Buddhism Incorporates key arguments from contemporary philosophers including Peter Singer, Martha Nussbaum, Robert Nozick, John Finnis, and Susan Wolf Uses examples from biography, literature, history, movies and media, and the news Gives a fresh perspective on the hard questions of our daily lives An engaging read; an excellent book for both students and general readers