Book summaries

The key ideas from classic books on thinking, learning and using your time well. About 5 minutes each. The first idea is free; Plus unlocks the rest.

John Dewey · 1910

How We Think

A philosopher’s plain-language guide to what good thinking actually is, and how to practise it.

6 min read

René Descartes · 1637

Discourse on the Method

Four simple rules for thinking clearly, from the book that gave us “I think, therefore I am”.

6 min read

William James · 1899

Talks to Teachers on Psychology

One of the founders of modern psychology on habit, attention and memory, written for everyday use.

6 min read

Arnold Bennett · 1908

How to Live on 24 Hours a Day

A short, funny, practical book about the free time you already have, and how to use it.

5 min read

Seneca · c. 49 AD

On the Shortness of Life

A Roman philosopher’s letter arguing that life is long enough, if you stop giving it away.

5 min read

Marcus Aurelius · c. 170–180 AD

Meditations

The private notebook of a Roman emperor, reminding himself how to think clearly under pressure.

6 min read