Ryan Holiday’s Right Thing Right Now is a compelling addition to his Stoic Virtues series, following the success of Discipline Is Destiny. This third instalment delves into the virtue of justice, arguing for its necessity in leading a fulfilling and principled life. Holiday’s exploration of justice is both timely and timeless, offering readers a profound understanding of why doing the right thing is essential, even when it is not easy.
At the heart of the book is the ancient belief that justice is the foundation from which all other virtues flow. Holiday posits that to be courageous, wise, and self-disciplined, one must first commit to justice. This commitment, he argues, is often undermined by modern societal influences that suggest acting justly is optional. Holiday contends that this misconception contributes significantly to the widespread unhappiness and moral failures of our age.
Right Thing Right Now is enriched with stories of historical figures who exemplified justice in their lives. Holiday draws on the lives of Marcus Aurelius, Florence Nightingale, Jimmy Carter, Gandhi, and Frederick Douglass, among others. These individuals serve as pillars of upright living, demonstrating the transformational power of adhering to a moral code. Through their examples, readers learn the importance of kindness, honesty, integrity, and loyalty. Conversely, Holiday also presents cautionary tales of unjust leaders, illustrating the dire consequences of an ill-formed conscience.
One of the book’s strengths is its ability to make the concept of justice accessible and relatable. Holiday’s writing is clear and engaging, making complex philosophical ideas understandable for a broad audience. He manages to pull together historical anecdotes and philosophical insights, creating a narrative that is both informative and thought-provoking. The book challenges readers to reflect on their own beliefs and actions, encouraging them to strive for a higher standard of integrity.
Holiday’s contention that true justice is inherently pro-social is particularly compelling. He argues that justice requires us to look beyond our own interests and consider the broader impact of our actions. This perspective is a refreshing counterpoint to the often self-centred ideals promoted by contemporary culture. Holiday’s examples of pro-social justice resonate deeply, prompting readers to consider how their actions affect others and the world around them.
The book is filled with memorable quotes and lessons that readers will find themselves returning to time and again. Holiday’s insights are both practical and profound, offering guidance on how to live a virtuous life. The idea that “integrity is rooted in self-respect” and the call to “obligate yourself to a standard higher than the one trodden by the crowd” are just a few of the powerful messages that stand out.
In conclusion, Right Thing Right Now is a powerful and timely exploration of justice. Ryan Holiday has crafted a book that not only educates but also inspires readers to live more justly. By drawing on historical examples and philosophical insights, Holiday makes a compelling case for the importance of doing the right thing, even when it is difficult. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the true meaning of justice and how to incorporate it into their daily lives. Whether you are a long-time follower of Holiday’s work or new to his writings, Right Thing Right Now is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
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