How Should We Live? by Roman Krznaric Summary

How Should We Live? by Roman Krznaric explores 12 timeless themes—including love, work, empathy, and creativity—to rethink modern life through historical wisdom. The book blends philosophy, anthropology, and cultural history, offering practical insights from ancient Greece to the Victorian era to challenge conventional ideas about relationships, consumerism, and purpose.

This book suits readers seeking alternatives to self-help clichés, particularly those interested in philosophy, cultural history, or societal norms. It appeals to individuals questioning work-life balance, consumerism, or how to cultivate empathy and creativity in a fast-paced world.

Yes, for its unique blend of historical analysis and practical guidance. Krznaric’s exploration of topics like the evolution of empathy and the dangers of equating work with identity offers fresh perspectives, though some may find the broad scope overwhelming.

Key ideas include redefining love beyond romance, balancing work with purpose, and reviving empathy through historical examples like the abolition of slavery. The book critiques consumerism, advocates reconnecting with nature, and encourages embracing creativity as a communal practice.

Krznaric analyzes practices like medieval “agape” (selfless love) and 18th-century empathy campaigns to show how past societies addressed universal challenges. For example, he links the Protestant work ethic to modern time commodification, urging readers to reclaim leisure and meaningful labor.

The book highlights empathy’s role in social movements, such as British abolitionists using firsthand accounts of slavery to drive change. Krznaric argues that empathy, often seen as personal, can be a collective force for justice when applied intentionally.

Krznaric critiques viewing work solely as income, noting it leads to unfulfilling “money-rich, time-poor” lives. He suggests adopting pre-industrial attitudes, where work blended with community and creativity, and time was seen as cyclical rather than a commodity to optimize.

The book traces consumerism to 18th-century luxury markets and warns against equating possessions with happiness. Krznaric advocates mindful spending—investing in experiences over goods—and cites Goethe’s view that true wealth lies in cultural and historical awareness.

He challenges the myth of lone geniuses, emphasizing historical collaboration (e.g., Renaissance workshops). The book urges readers to embrace everyday creativity, like storytelling or gardening, rather than reserving it for “artists”.

“Deathstyle” refers to reevaluating modern taboos around mortality. Krznaric encourages open conversations about death, drawing from Victorian practices like post-mortem photography, to foster acceptance and refocus on living meaningfully.

Critics note the book’s broad scope risks oversimplification, and its reliance on historical examples may lack concrete modern applications. Some argue it overlooks systemic barriers to implementing its ideas, such as economic inequality affecting work choices.

Unlike step-by-step self-help guides, Krznaric’s work prioritizes philosophical reflection over quick fixes. It shares similarities with Alain de Botton’s writings but stands out for its historical depth and focus on collective, rather than individual, transformation.