The Consolations of Philosophy

Alain de Botton examines how philosophy can address ordinary human difficulties, pairing six philosophers with common problems such as unpopularity, financial insecurity, frustration, inadequacy, heartbreak, and hardship. Through Socrates, Epicurus, Seneca, Montaigne, Schopenhauer, and Nietzsche, the book connects their ideas to practical questions about living well. It presents philosophy as a source of perspective and consolation rather than an exclusively academic subject.

by Alain de Botton

Vintage Books · First published 2000 · 264 pages