Books › The art of being human
The art of being human
First published 1979 · 626 pages
An expansive, guided tour through the greatest achievements of human thought and creativity, designed to enrich the everyday.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like walking through a vast, sunlit museum with a deeply knowledgeable and endlessly patient guide. The pace is steady and deliberate, allowing you to linger over profound ideas without feeling rushed. It cultivates an expansive, intellectually stimulating mood, wrapping the reader in a sense of wonder at the sheer breadth of human creativity. The prose is clear, structured, and encouraging, breaking down complex philosophical and artistic concepts into accessible, life-enriching lessons. It is less about memorizing facts and more about learning how to see the world through a richer, more empathetic lens. This is a deeply rewarding experience for lifelong learners, curious students, and anyone seeking to find deeper meaning and connection in the everyday tapestry of human culture.
- Mood
- contemplative
- expansive
- intellectually stimulating
- uplifting
- Tone
- earnest
- encouraging
- academic
- reflective
- accessible
- Pace
- steady
- Themes
- the search for meaning · cultural appreciation · the power of art · critical thinking · human connection
- The writing
- Clear, structured, and deeply accessible, designed to illuminate complex ideas without overwhelming the reader.
- The arc
- Moves from a foundational curiosity about the world to a profound, interconnected appreciation of human expression.
- Who it's for
- Lifelong learners and curious minds eager to understand how art, philosophy, and culture shape the human experience.
Content notes
- discussions of mortality
- historical conflict
About the book
Help students broaden their perspectives and enrich their lives through the humanities The Art of Being Human: The Humanities as a Technique for Living introduces students to the joys of the humanities — those disciplines that reflect the best efforts of human culture through the ages and around the globe. Authors Richard Janaro and Thelma Altshuler’s topical, thematic approach empowers students to think critically about key artforms and themes individually, and to draw significant connections among them.
Description from Open Library.
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