Seneca's "On Benefits" explores the nature of beneficence and the importance of giving and receiving kindness. He examines the various forms of benefits, both material and immaterial, and discusses the proper motivations for giving and receiving them. Seneca emphasizes the reciprocal nature of beneficence and its role in fostering social harmony. The work offers practical guidance on how to cultivate generosity and gratitude. Its enduring value lies in its timeless insights into human relationships and its practical advice for living a virtuous life.
In 'Stoic Wisdom', Nancy Sherman presents a compelling, modern Stoicism that teaches how to find calm in times of stress and uncertainty. Drawing on the wisdom of Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and others, Sherman shows how Stoic methods of examining beliefs and perceptions can help correct distortions in what we believe, see, and feel. The book emphasizes the importance of cooperative efforts and deep relationships in building resilience and goodness. It addresses 21st-century concerns such as stress, burnout, and social justice through nine lessons that combine ancient quotes and daily exercises with contemporary ethics and psychology.
In 'Project Hail Mary', Ryland Grace, a high school science teacher, awakens on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there or his mission. He soon discovers that he is the sole survivor of a desperate mission to save Earth from a microorganism called the Astrophage, which is threatening to cause a new ice age. As Ryland regains his memories, he encounters an alien named Rocky, and together they work to solve the scientific mystery and save their respective home planets. The story blends science, humor, and heart, exploring themes of survival, discovery, and unlikely friendships[1][3][5].
Something for nothing
Do rewards and incentives damage our humanity?
In much of our personal and professional lives, we receive rewards for good behaviour and carrying out our responsibilities. But, evidence now suggests there are risks to this approach. Studies show rewards can damage wellbeing, fostering dependence and undermining our own sense of control. And neuroscientists have shown those more prone to seeking reward have a 70% higher risk of addiction, with addictive behaviour now present in almost half of the U.S. population. So, should we move away from rewards-based systems, and instead learn to value doing the right thing simply for the sake of, well, doing the right thing?
Paul Bloom is a Canadian-American psychologist, bestselling author, and celebrated speaker. Bloom has written widely on human nature, and he won the Klaus J. Jacobs Research Prize for his investigations into how children develop a sense of morality.
Dan Ariely is a Professor of Psychology and Behavioural Economics at Duke University and best-selling author. Ariely is a scholar of irrationality and decision-making, explaining how we repeatedly and predictably make the wrong decisions in many aspects of our lives.
Nancy Sherman is a Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown University who has conducted research in general ethics, moral psychology, and the history of philosophy with focus on the Stoic tradition. A New York Times Notable Author and sought-after speaker, her views on military ethics have been influential.
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Philosophy For Our Times 
