In a world where philosophy is often reduced to catch-phrases and empty theories, this is a passionate defence of logic and consistency as the keys to happiness. Personal effectiveness, the basis of well-being and success, results from rational goals, workable plans and relentless action.

In the areas of career, health, relationships and investments, this essay shows how to let go of wasteful propositions, pursue compatible goals, cultivate perseverance and resilience, minimize problems and maximize opportunities.

Inspired by the teachings of Aristotle, Maimonides, Erasmus, Montaigne,...

When a Belgian industrialist is diagnosed with cancer and told that he doesn't have long to live, he decides to bet his fortune on Prof. Zirkovsky's research. He convinces Zirkovsky to quit his teaching position in Brussels and set up a laboratory in Charlerois, a small town, in order to conduct experiments with monkeys.

When Zirkovsky's research shows the first signs of success, animal-rights activists demand him to abandon his experiments. A series of violent attacks against the lab lead the industrialist to call his insurer, Alfred Grail, a Vietnam veteran living in Switzerland. What...

In order to improve your life, you don't need to place your hopes on a lottery ticket or wait for the world to grant you the perfect opportunity.

There is a better way and it is condensed in the principles of rational living, principles such as "think like an entrepreneur, not like a crusader," "ignore the noise and focus on results," "stay away from high-risk situations," "find people who share your values," and "develop strong long-term passions."

This book presents the principles of rational living in great detail, with numerous examples of people who have applied them successfully....

The thesis of this book is that the dominant ideas about how to reduce stress are ineffective because they are irrational. They hardly provide any short- or long-term relief.
Reason is the only workable method to relieve stress permanently, a method that requires work and dedication, but provides excellent results. This book presents many real-life examples that will show you how to eliminate stress in tense situations, bring peace of mind to your life, make choices that enhance your self-reliance, avoid nerve-wrecking inconsistencies, and lead a good life based on reason.
The...

Becoming emotionally unbreakable is a primary skill for achieving happiness. This book presents the principles of psychological strength, together with stories of people who have used those principles: How did Joseph Abbeel survive the Napoleonic wars, and manage to start a new life? Which crucial success principle was discovered by the Ancient Roman poet Ovid? How did Buffalo Bill cope with his tremendous financial mistakes? How did William Turner protect himself against negative criticism? Their stories will show you what to do when you are confronted with severe problems, even when...

Learning a simple formula for thriving in difficult times is everybody's wish. We all want to be able to surmount obstacles and move through life smoothly, without becoming intimidated by difficulties.

The Ancient Greeks took pride in their practical approach to life: How they assessed situations, made decisions, and pursued complex goals. This book presents the principles they used for solving problems and getting things done.

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the world as it was twenty-five centuries ago, and learn what the Ancient Greeks had to say about all important aspects of...

Are you trying to live rationally and facing all kinds of difficulties? How do you deal with people who won't listen to logical arguments? How should you react to situations of massive unfairness? This book provides practical advice on how to live rationally and maximize your chances of happiness in every situation. Amongst others, it will show you how to minimize stress and maintain your peace of mind, benefit from the advantages of non-linear thinking, avoid short-sighted decisions, and increase your resilience during times of adversity. Each chapter contains real-life examples of...