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Twelve Steps To A Compassionate Life (2010)

by Karen Armstrong(Favorite Author)

3.83 of 5 Votes: 2

ISBN

0307881741 (ISBN13: 9780307881748)

languge

English

genre

Nonfiction

publisher

Random House Audio

review 1: This book, by religious historian, Karen Armstrong offers 12 steps to becoming a more compassionate person. Karen draws upon her vast knowledge of religious history and cultural history to highlight the compassionate way of life as the crux and primary hope commonly held by most religions.This is quite an intellectual book, recommending that one read it through first and then working through the steps later and at ones unhurried leisure.It would be nice if all aspiring change makers and politicians took the time to read this book and really take note.
review 2: I am certain that I expected something completely different from what this work ended up being, but at the same time, I couldn't determine what I preferred: my perception of what this book might be, my s... morehocked reevaluation within the first few chapters, and my warped understanding at its completion.I went into this expecting a self-help book, full of positivity and mantras and all of the stuff that, I figure, will help me to understand and be more empathetic toward people who seek to live a more compassionate lifestyle. Though I have personally taken a pledge of heightened intention and compassion recently, I was not exactly looking for a 12-step program - if we're being honest, I was seeking a validation that my approach towards my compassionate goals is correct. I can't say I left disappointed. In fact, I'm rather impressed with Armstrong. As someone who studied theology in college, I was thrilled when the entrance into this book consisted of so much theological history across the faiths. I was getting more on board with the book than I anticipated, enjoying the argument that was neither watered down nor wholly academic. Her argument was formed intelligently and clearly, and I was beginning to see that I may get more out of this book than expected.However, then we start to make headway into the steps, and I remember that this is still considered self-help for a reason. Although that transition was smooth, I found myself zoning out when Armstrong talked about discussing this or that step with my discussion group. I felt isolated from the truth of the book by the insistence on the accompanying program - even though I had started this pursuit for compassion on my own, I suddenly felt undue pressure to continue and commit to it. I could not read for curiosity or for learning's sake - either commit or butt out. Maybe I felt that pressure more because of the audiobook format - I can't be certain.The lessons Armstrong illustrates are important and, I believe, could be helpful as guidelines rather than a directive. Though I certainly found more ideas for improving my walk toward compassion and empathy, following in Armstrong's precise order might be more of a commitment than I previously anticipated.The book is certainly worth reading if you're into this sort of thing...just don't get overwhelmed by the self-assured woman who is trying to redefine culture as we know it. less

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Reviews (see all)

Beautiful

This book, by religious historian, Karen Armstrong offers 12 steps to becoming a more compassionate person. Karen draws upon her vast knowledge of religious history and cultural history to highlight the compassionate way of life as the crux and primary hope commonly held by most religions.This is quite an intellectual book, recommending that one read it through first and then working through the steps later and at ones unhurried leisure.It would be nice if all aspiring change makers and politicians took the time to read this book and really take note.

jokaiho

An interesting way of organizing a book about living a compassionate life. I read it because I acquired it after the Great Flood and Great Mold Dissemination at the Harvard Bookstore last year (my copy is spotted) and I really like Karen Armstrong. It was highly readable and even inspiring. Maybe not as original as some of her other work--aside from the very unique way the information is presented (in 12 steps), which was not all that life changing for me.

bobby

A thorough look at the topic by a noted religious historian.

lol

A quick read tho' a long book; interesting if a bit 1984ish

james

Recommended ! Beautiful book.

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