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In the final instalment of his Stoic Virtue Series, author Ryan Holiday presents "Wisdom Takes Work", a book that delves into the Stoic virtue of wisdom and underscores the ongoing effort required to cultivate it.
Holiday argues that wisdom is not a passive trait but an active obligation that demands consistent practice, irrespective of external circumstances. In a world filled with uncertainty, setbacks, and unfairness, Holiday emphasises the Stoic teaching that our duty remains constant - to be good, to be wise, and to uphold what is right, regardless of the obstacles or changes we may face.
The book illustrates this concept through historical figures such as Helvidius Priscus, who refused to abandon his principles even under threat of death. Holiday quotes Marcus Aurelius to reinforce this point: "Whatever anyone does or says, for my part I’m bound to the good ... I must be what I am and show my true colors."
"Wisdom Takes Work" encourages readers to view wisdom as a demanding but essential task that shapes our responses to life's challenges and helps us fulfil our ethical responsibilities. The book discusses cultivating wisdom as an active, ongoing practice - one that involves resilience, moral clarity, and a commitment to duty, even in the face of external chaos.
This practical approach aligns with the Stoic ideal that wisdom, along with justice, courage, and temperance, is central to living a virtuous and fulfilling life. Holiday's book encourages readers to see wisdom as a demanding but essential task that shapes our responses to life's challenges and helps us fulfil our ethical responsibilities.
Preorder bonuses for "Wisdom Takes Work" include a signed page of the original manuscript, an invite to a LIVE Q&A with Ryan Holiday, early access to the book's introduction, two bonus chapters, and more. The book is the culmination of all previous books, newsletters, podcasts, and videos from the platform.
"Wisdom Takes Work" is available for preorder now at the platform's website. The book is the final instalment in the Stoic Virtue series, which began with "Courage is Calling", followed by "Discipline Is Destiny" and "Right Thing, Right Now".
"The book 'Wisdom Takes Work' by Ryan Holiday, in the Stoic Virtue Series, emphasizes that wisdom is an essential aspect of personal growth and education-and-self-development, encouraging readers to see it as an active and ongoing task for shaping our responses to life's challenges and fulfilling our ethical responsibilities."
"Through historical figures and Stoic teachings, the book underlines the importance of resilience, moral clarity, and a commitment to duty in cultivating wisdom, which, according to Holiday, is central to living a virtuous and fulfilling life."
