The Road to Character Summary, PDF, EPUB, Audio

Q: What is *The Road to Character* by David Brooks about?

*The Road to Character* explores the distinction between **résumé virtues** (career-focused skills) and **eulogy virtues** (moral qualities like kindness and courage). David Brooks argues that modern society overprioritizes external success, urging readers to cultivate inner character through humility, self-examination, and learning from historical figures’ moral struggles.

Q: What are the main themes in *The Road to Character*?

Key themes include: - **Humility** as the foundation of character. - The tension between **self-promotion** and **moral virtue**. - Learning through struggle and failure. - Shifting focus from "résumé virtues" to "eulogy virtues".

Q: What is the difference between résumé virtues and eulogy virtues?

**Résumé virtues** are skills for career success (e.g., ambition, technical prowess). **Eulogy virtues** define moral character (e.g., honesty, compassion), remembered after death. Brooks argues modern culture neglects the latter, risking hollow achievements.

Q: What is the "Shift" in *The Road to Character*?

The "Shift" refers to transitioning from a **self-centered "Big Me" mindset** to one focused on moral purpose. Brooks argues this requires confronting weaknesses and aligning actions with deeper values.

The Road to Character

David Brooks

3.65 (25965 Reviews)

Self-growth

Psychology

Philosophy

Overview

Key Takeaways

Author

FAQs

In "The Road to Character," David Brooks challenges our resume-obsessed culture, advocating instead for "eulogy virtues." Bill Gates named it a favorite for its profound wisdom on moral development - a timely reminder that what's remembered at your funeral matters more than your LinkedIn profile.

What is The Road to Character by David Brooks about?

The Road to Character explores the distinction between résumé virtues (career-focused skills) and eulogy virtues (moral qualities like kindness and courage). David Brooks argues that modern society overprioritizes external success, urging readers to cultivate inner character through humility, self-examination, and learning from historical figures’ moral struggles.

Who should read The Road to Character?

This book suits readers seeking purpose beyond material success, including those interested in ethics, self-improvement, or philosophy. It’s ideal for individuals reevaluating their values or navigating life transitions, offering insights into building a legacy through moral growth.

Is The Road to Character worth reading?

Yes. Brooks combines historical biographies with timeless wisdom, challenging readers to prioritize humility and moral integrity. Critics praise its nuanced exploration of character development, though some note its idealistic tone.

What are the main themes in The Road to Character?

Key themes include:

Humility as the foundation of character.
The tension between self-promotion and moral virtue.
Learning through struggle and failure.
Shifting focus from "résumé virtues" to "eulogy virtues".

What is the difference between résumé virtues and eulogy virtues?

Résumé virtues are skills for career success (e.g., ambition, technical prowess). Eulogy virtues define moral character (e.g., honesty, compassion), remembered after death. Brooks argues modern culture neglects the latter, risking hollow achievements.

How does David Brooks define humility in The Road to Character?

Humility involves recognizing personal flaws and prioritizing moral growth over self-glorification. Brooks outlines a 15-point "Humility Code" advocating self-awareness, service to others, and embracing life’s challenges as opportunities for growth.

Who are the historical figures discussed in The Road to Character?

Brooks analyzes figures like Augustine, Dwight Eisenhower, and Frances Perkins to illustrate character-building through adversity. Their stories highlight resilience, self-sacrifice, and the pursuit of moral excellence.

What is the "Shift" in The Road to Character?

The "Shift" refers to transitioning from a self-centered "Big Me" mindset to one focused on moral purpose. Brooks argues this requires confronting weaknesses and aligning actions with deeper values.

Does The Road to Character offer practical advice for personal growth?

Yes. Brooks advocates journaling for self-reflection, studying moral exemplars, and embracing struggles as growth opportunities. He emphasizes incremental progress over perfection.

How does The Road to Character critique modern society?

Brooks critiques society’s obsession with fame, wealth, and self-promotion, arguing it erodes empathy and moral depth. He urges a return to virtues like duty, humility, and community.

What is the "Humility Code" in The Road to Character?

The 15-point Humility Code outlines principles for ethical living, including accepting imperfection, prioritizing love over achievement, and finding purpose through service. It serves as a roadmap for character development.

Are there criticisms of The Road to Character?

Some critics argue Brooks oversimplifies historical figures’ complexities or offers vague solutions. Others note the book’s focus on individualism despite advocating communal values.

How does The Road to Character compare to Brooks’ other books?

Unlike The Social Animal (which blends psychology and sociology) or Bobos in Paradise (analyzing cultural elites), The Road to Character focuses on moral philosophy, offering a more introspective, virtue-centered framework.

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Key takeaways

The Forgotten Art of Character Building

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We live in a world that celebrates external success above all else. In "The Road to Character," David Brooks identifies a profound cultural shift from what he calls the "Little Me" culture of humility to today's "Big Me" era of self-promotion. This transformation is striking: in 1950, only 12% of high school seniors considered themselves "very important persons" - by 2005, that number had skyrocketed to 80%. Our society constantly reinforces messages of self-importance: "You are special. Trust yourself. Be true to yourself." Even institutions like the Girl Scouts have shifted from teaching self-sacrifice to self-focus. But what if this obsession with external achievement is preventing us from building what truly matters - character? What if the qualities that make a meaningful life aren't the ones that look good on a resume, but rather those mentioned in our eulogies? Most of us live with an internal tension between two competing selves. There's Adam I - our ambitious, career-focused self who seeks external success and status. Then there's Adam II - our deeper self who longs for moral virtue and inner character. Our culture overwhelmingly celebrates and rewards Adam I achievements, while Adam II development gets neglected. The most impressive people somehow integrate these competing selves. They radiate what Brooks calls "moral joy" - a remarkable inner cohesion. These rare individuals answer harsh words with soft responses. They maintain dignity when humiliated. They perform acts of service without self-promotion. What's striking is how different they are from our cultural ideal. They don't maximize self-expression or pursue happiness directly. Instead, they've built character by confronting their weaknesses and developing self-effacing virtues: humility, restraint, and self-discipline.

The U-Curve: Finding Purpose Through Humility

The Discipline of Self-Conquest

Suffering as Transformation

The Power of Dignity and Self-Control

The Humility Code: Finding Freedom in Surrender

Reclaiming Character in a Self-Obsessed Age

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The Road to Character isn't just a book — it's a masterclass in Self-growth. To help you absorb its lessons in the way that works best for you, we offer five unique learning modes. Whether you're a deep thinker, a fast learner, or a story lover, there's a mode designed to fit your style.

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@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

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"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

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"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

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"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

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@Jaded_Falcon

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"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

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"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

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"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

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"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

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The Road to Character by David Brooks Summary

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