Episode · EconTalk · 2022-09-19
Books mentioned on Kieran Setiya on Midlife
John Stuart Mill's midlife crisis came at 20 when he realized that if he got what he desired he still wouldn't be happy. Art and poetry (and maybe love) saved the day for him.
Russ Roberts discussed Midlife by Kieran Setiya. Kieran Setiya discussed Lost in Thought by Zena Hitz.
Books mentioned, in the order they came up
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Midlife
Midlife by Kieran Setiya is a philosophical guide that reevaluates the midlife crisis, arguing that while cultural panic surrounding middle age is sometimes overhyped, the psychological challenges of this life stage are genuinely rooted in valid philosophical reasons.
Discussed“His latest book in print and the subject of today's episode is Midlife.”
Where to get it
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Lost in Thought
Lost in Thought by Zena Hitz is a philosophical exploration of the value of intellectual life, inner freedom, and the transformative power of learning away from utilitarian pressures.
Discussed“The philosopher Zena Hitz has a nice phrase for this in um I'm not sure if it's in her book Lost in Thought or in some of the essays around the book.”
Where to get it
Other mentions in this episode (1) — ad reads, self-promotion and passing references, never counted
“His forthcoming book is called Life is Hard.”