Philosophy is useful in many ways. De Botton makes that clear. ( )

An original journey into the idea of consolation (a reference to the philosoper Boethius), under the guide of a few "wise friends": Socrates, Epicurus, Seneca, Montaigne, Schopenhauer and Nietzsche. With an accessible style and an original use of images, De Botton is able to tighten the gap between philosophy and everyday life, problems and perception. The chapter focused on Socrates and Nietzsche are probably the best. ( )

So many philosophy books get bogged down pretty quickly, and I lose interest. That wasn't the case with this one. Admittedly, it is on the lighter side, but De Botton's choice of philosophers and philosophies is interesting. I found his descriptions of Schopenhauer and Nietzsche to be much more understandable than other overviews. And, essentially, he includes stoicism, which is a philosophy we all need more of. He writes with humor and, like Montaigne, he doesn't spare himself as he weaves his story. So, this is very enjoyable and may provide a basis for digging further into these philosophers ( )

¿Cómo podemos conseguir que la filosofía forme parte de nuestra vida cotidiana? Alain de Botton demuestra que la filosofía es una inagotable fuente de consuelo, capaz de inspirarnos y motivarnos a diario. En un fascinante recorrido a través de 2.400 años de filosofía occidental, el autor recurre a la vida y obra de seis filósofos fundamentales para examinar otros tantos problemas comunes. Sócrates ilustra la impopularidad y Epicuro la falta de dinero. La trayectoria de Séneca es un ejemplo ante la frustración. Montaigne se enfrenta a la ineptitud y Schopenhauer al corazón partido. Por último, Nietzsche nos enseña qué hacer ante las dificultades. Con esta singular combinación de ingenio, sabiduría e invención, esta obra es una guía práctica para resolver problemas cotidianos y una deslumbrante introducción a la historia y los usos de la filosofía.

An introductory look at the lives and ideas of 6 European philosophers, with a bit of the author’s own perspectives thrown in. Certainly not comprehensive, but interesting. ( )