Can wisdom be understood, developed, and improved?
Does wisdom really underlie success, fulfillment, and happiness?
What are the characteristics and skills of wise individuals?
Can one be happier and more fulfilled by "loving wisdom"?
Philos sophia is Greek for "the love of wisdom," and is the precursor of modern philosophy and much of applied psychology. As a long-time lover of wisdom, author Jason Merchey brings a refreshing array of insightful and interesting quotations (and personal reflections) to this deep and wide investigation into the nature of wisdom. WISDOM is a fascinating research-based yet personal take on that place where philosophy, psychology, well-being, personal growth, spirituality, politics, and American culture come together. It communicates: "This is what wisdom is; here is how it is useful for the author; within there is inspiration for how wisdom can be useful for the reader-and the United States as an ailing society." In 15 chapters many aspects, hallmarks, and components of wisdom are delved into. Well over fifteen-hundred quotations from an array of wise thinkers throughout history are brought to the fore. Examples of topics include: "Wisdom As Vision," "Open-Mindedness and Mental Flexibility," and "Developing Greater Wisdom." Certainly, values such as free will, kindness, strength, critical thinking, and tolerance are discussed. The optimal end result is a unique, probing, and broad-minded look at what amounts to a somewhat complex, rather under-appreciated virtue. There is also some incisive commentary on the state of politics, attitudes, values, ethics, and wisdom in modern America, as well. WISDOM is for any open-minded reader who has an interest in self-improvement on an individual level, and in progressivism at a societal level. It tends to come across to a reader as secular, integrative, humanistic, humane, and philosophical/psychological in nature.
