Consolations of Philosophy: Reflections in an Economic Downturn

In light of the tumultuous past three decades in Ireland, this book gathers eleven different philosophical approaches to facing misfortunes and coping with the vicissitudes of life. The issues are introduced in an accessible and engaging manner. The thoughts of Plato and Kant are explored and schools such as Stoicism, Epicureanism, Pragmatism, and Existentialism are presented. Buddhism, Quietism, the benefits of craft, and the question of whether philosophy can indeed console are discussed.