Description
Book SynopsisTo the ears of ceaselessly busy and ambitious modern Westerners, it will come as a shock, and perhaps as an insult, to be told that human affairs are unserious. But this fundamental truth is exactly what James Schall, following Plato, has to teach us in this wise and witty book.
Schall cites Charlie Brown, Aristotle, and Samuel Johnson with the same sobrietythe sobriety that sees the truth in what is delightful and even amusing. Singing, dancing, playing, contemplating, and other useless human activities are not merely forms of escape from more important thingspolitics, work, social activism, etc.but an indication of the very nature of the highest things themselves.
On the Unseriousness of Human Affairs is an instructive volume whose countercultural message is of vital importance.
Trade ReviewReaders will not go wrong wasting the time it takes to cavort with the eternal truths presented, with such an enervating spirit of fun, in
On the Unseriousness of Human Affairs.
National Catholic RegisterIt is a book lightly written, laced with references to Charlie Brown and other cartoons, but deceptively heavy. I found myself inclinedalmost forcedto pause after every section and think about Schalls words.
TouchstoneSchalls call to take seriously the unseriousness things of life is clearly, cleverly, and creatively stated.
Perspectives on Political ScienceThis new collection on what it is to be an educated human does not disappoint.
New Oxford Review
