Philosophy in the Age of Covid-19, with Eric Weiner and Danielle Sands

The book is divided into four parts. The first part addresses the world as representation, the second details the world as will, the third discusses art and beauty as the only way to transcend the painful human condition, and the fourth discusses ethics and the ascetic ideal. Schopenhauer argues that the will is the underlying reality of the world, beyond mere appearances, and that it is characterized by ceaseless striving and suffering.

Published in 1854, 'Walden; Or, Life in the Woods' is a series of 18 essays that reflect Thoreau's experiences living in a small cabin near Walden Pond from July 1845 to September 1847. The book is a personal declaration of independence, a social experiment, and a voyage of spiritual discovery. Thoreau details his life in the woods, discussing the construction of his cabin, his daily activities, and his philosophical reflections on economy, social relations, and the importance of living in harmony with nature. The work is considered a cornerstone of American literature and a foundational text in the Transcendentalist movement, emphasizing the benefits of a simplified lifestyle and the importance of individual freedom and self-reliance[2][4][5].

The Analects is a classic text that addresses practical issues of life and conduct through dialogues, stories, and anecdotes. Confucius's teachings focus on virtue, happiness, state governance, and human relationships, all based on principles of justice and moderation. Translated by Arthur Waley and introduced by Sarah Allan, this edition remains one of the most influential texts in philosophy even after two and a half millennia.

Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.

Montaigne's *Essays* are a seminal work that introduced the essay as a literary form. The book is a personal and introspective exploration of various subjects, including the human condition, skepticism, and the importance of concrete experience over abstract learning. Montaigne's skepticism is reflected in the title *Essais*, meaning 'Attempts' or 'Tests', indicating a project of trial and error and tentative exploration. The essays cover topics such as the education of children, the role of the body, illness, aging, and death. Montaigne's writing style is characterized by multiple digressions, anecdotes from ancient and contemporary sources, and quotations that reinforce his critical analysis of reality[2][5][4].

In 'The Socrates Express', Eric Weiner combines philosophy and travel to uncover surprising life lessons from renowned thinkers like Socrates, Nietzsche, and Simone Weil. Traveling by train, he reflects on their ideas to help readers lead wiser, more meaningful lives. The book offers practical and spiritual insights for navigating today's complex world.

Coming of Age: How Adolescence Shapes Us delves into the often misunderstood period of adolescence, using a decade of expert research to expose myths and reveal the genuine reasons behind teenage behaviors. The book covers various aspects of adolescent life, including peer pressure, risk-taking, sex, love, bullying, and friendship. It highlights that apparent recklessness is often calculated, teenagers are socially conservative as well as rebellious, and that self-consciousness and sensation-seeking are normal and useful. The author, Lucy Foulkes, emphasizes the extraordinary capacity of adolescents for resilience, empathy, and mutual support, and how these experiences are crucial for self-discovery[1][3][4].