A Journey Through Ethics and Laughter: My Experience with How to Be Perfect
When I first heard about Michael Schur’s How to Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Quandary, I was immediately intrigued. As a fan of The Good Place, I was curious to see how the brilliant mind behind such an intelligent comedy would tackle the weighty subjects of ethics and morality. Could a book on philosophical complexities actually be entertaining? Spoiler: it absolutely can, and Schur proves that laughter and learning can coexist beautifully.
Schur embarks on an ambitious journey, summarizing moral philosophies from ancient philosophers like Aristotle to contemporary thinkers, all while keeping a playful tone. He introduces readers to concepts like "moral exhaustion," an exploration on how overwhelming it can be to try to always do good in a world rife with contradictions. When he dives into the vagaries of luck in his life—how winning at casinos causes him anxiety instead of joy—it’s both relatable and eye-opening. Schur’s blend of candor and self-deprecation makes you feel like you’re having a cozy chat over coffee, albeit a coffee spiced with heavy philosophical subjects.
What stood out to me was his unique writing style, which is casual yet thought-provoking. His ability to present dense ideas in an accessible manner is a testament to his comedic talent. For instance, his fictional scenarios—like the misadventures of a character named Damon—are absurd yet strikingly clear, effectively breaking down complex theories into digestible bites. And that humor! I found myself chuckling even at the endnotes, where he admits to fabricating quotes, assuring us he doesn’t expect readers to really check them. This self-awareness is delightful and sharpens the reading experience, simmering with warmth and accessibility.
There are memorable quotes that seriously made me pause and think. Schur mentions Descartes’ "Cogito, ergo sum" next to the African philosophy of ubuntu: "I am, because we are." This tension between the individual and the collective tackles the heart of ethical living and resonated deeply with me. It poses a thought-provoking quandary, asking us to reflect on our existence within our communities—something I believe many of us grapple with today.
Yet, while Schur’s exploration is undoubtedly entertaining, it can also feel slightly predictable, as various philosophical arguments fold into one another, often leading us to the same conclusion: nothing is black and white. He does an outstanding job of showcasing how philosophy, while intriguing, can also be confusing and contradictory—echoing George Carlin’s quip on the absurdity of religious rules.
For those who enjoyed The Good Place, this book is a natural extension of its themes. Schur’s humor and insights resonate throughout, making it a must-read for fans of the show and philosophy alike. Ultimately, How to Be Perfect isn’t just about answering moral quandaries but about embracing the chaos of trying to be a good person in a messy world.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a book infused with laughter and deep philosophical inquiry, this one is for you. Its significance lies in its relatability—perfectly imperfect, just like us. For me, it reaffirmed that navigating ethics doesn’t have to be a solemn affair. It’s a vibrant, chaotic journey best taken with laughter, humility, and a healthy dose of curiosity. So, grab a cup of coffee (and maybe a cat) and dive into Schur’s world. You won’t regret it!
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