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How to Do the Right Thing
An Ancient Guide to Treating People Fairly
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Description
There are times when we've all felt that we haven't been treated as we deserve—that we've been misjudged, shortchanged, or given a raw deal. And, at one time or another, other people have probably felt that we've treated them just as unfairly. How to Do the Right Thing draws on the principles of ancient Stoicism as articulated by the Roman statesman and philosopher Seneca to help readers better navigate one of the most important practical questions of daily life—how to do right by others.
Starting from the virtue of magnanimity—the opposite of small-mindedness—How to Do the Right Thing draws together lessons from Seneca's writings that stress the importance of calm and clear thinking, of judging oneself fairly before judging others, and of cutting people slack, with a bias toward mercy—all delivered in crisp and lively new translations, and with the original Latin on facing pages.
Robert Kaster's translations are wonderful, the selections exciting, and, as always, it is a pleasure to be put smack in the middle of Seneca's coaxing, cajoling, and coaching. —Nancy Sherman, author of Stoic Wisdom: Ancient Lessons in Modern Resilience
Series: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers
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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Reviews commend James Kaster's translation of How to Do the Right Thing by Seneca for its precision and readability, capturing the emotional resonance of the original writings. The work offers a fresh perspective and contemporary voice on Seneca's ideas, particularly focusing on fairness, drawing upon his extensive essays and moral letters. Critics highlight the insightful arrangement of Seneca's thoughts under thematic headings, praising the clarity and stylistic appeal of the translation.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780691238647
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 20 June 2023
Country: United States
Imprint: Princeton University Press
Contributors:
- Translated by Robert Kaster
- Edited and translated by Robert Kaster
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 114.0mm
Height: 171.0mm
Weight: 250g
Pages: 288
About the Author
Robert A. Kaster is professor emeritus of classics and Kennedy Foundation Professor Emeritus of Latin at Princeton University. His books include The Appian Way: Ghost Road, Queen of Roads and (with Martha C. Nussbaum) Seneca: Anger, Mercy, Revenge.
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