More than Happiness

Buddhist and Stoic Wisdom for a Sceptical Age

By: Antonia Macaro

Narrated by: Jilly Bond

How can we achieve more than happiness?

In More than Happiness, Antonia Macaro delves into both philosophies, focusing on the elements that fit with our sceptical age and those which have the potential to make the biggest impact on how we live. From accepting that some things are beyond our control, to monitoring our emotions for unhealthy reactions, to shedding attachment to material things, there is much, she argues, that we can take and much that we’d do better to leave behind. In this synthesis of ancient wisdom, Macaro reframes the ‘good life’ and gets us to see the world as it really is, and to question the value of the things we desire. The goal is more than happiness: living ethically and placing value on the right things in life.

©2018 Antonia Macaro (P)2020 W F Howes

Critic reviews

“This groundbreaking study provides a much-needed philosophical framework for those practising mindfulness as well as a call to recover the pragmatic and therapeutic dimensions of philosophy.” (Stephen Batchelor)

Could not endure narrator to the end.

I know a smidge about Buddhism and nothing of Stoicism so the subject was interesting enough for me. Unfortunately the female narrator, who I enjoyed listening to initially, decided to speak any quotes from the male historical figures in a deep "and then the Papa Bear said..." voice that I could not believe she was doing. It sounds condescending regardless of her intention. I tried to ignore it but found it so off putting I gave up half way through the book. Maybe you won't even notice. I doubt that though.

Very interesting compare and contrast between Stoicism and Buddhism

The similarities between these two philosophies is apparent once you dive into them, but it’s very helpful to have an expert’s guide through the Venn cross-over points and what isn’t and then compare that to modern psychology.