The Life Worth Living in Ancient Greek and Roman Philosophy

The book explores ancient views on a life worth living against a background of the pessimistic outlook on the human condition. It offers a fresh and compelling narrative of ancient ethics, comparing and contrasting it with modern philosophical debates.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The pursuit of the ultimate human experience, characterized by happiness or flourishing, has been a central theme in ancient ethics. However, the question of what constitutes a life worth living, even if it is not entirely happy, has been extensively debated throughout history. In his groundbreaking book, "The Best Life: Philosophical Engagements with the Question from Socrates to Plotinus," David Machek reconstructs the philosophical discussions on this topic from ancient times to the Roman era.

Machek's comprehensive work delves into the ancient perspectives on a life worth living, juxtaposed against the pessimistic outlook on human nature adopted by the Greek poets. It also highlights the continuities and contrasts between the ancient perspective and modern philosophical debates surrounding biomedical ethics and procreation. Through his detailed study of this relatively neglected theme, Machek presents a fresh and compelling narrative of ancient ethics.

The book begins by exploring the philosophical foundations laid by Socrates, who believed that the pursuit of wisdom and virtue was the key to a fulfilling life. Socrates' ideas were further developed by his followers, such as Plato and Aristotle, who emphasized the importance of reason, moderation, and ethical behavior in achieving happiness.

However, the question of what constitutes a life worth living remained a subject of debate in later centuries. Plotinus, a philosopher of the Roman era, argued that the ultimate goal of human existence was to transcend the limitations of the physical world and achieve union with the divine. Plotinus believed that the soul was the source of human happiness and that the ultimate purpose of life was to cultivate the soul through meditation and self-knowledge.

Machek's book also examines the ethical implications of various practices and beliefs in ancient society, such as euthanasia, suicide, and the treatment of slaves. He argues that the ancient Greeks and Romans had a nuanced understanding of the value of human life and that their ethical principles still have relevance today.

In conclusion, "The Best Life: Philosophical Engagements with the Question from Socrates to Plotinus" is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh and compelling perspective on ancient ethics. Machek's comprehensive exploration of the topic provides valuable insights into the philosophical debates of ancient times and their relevance to modern society. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy, ethics, and the human experience.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009257879