Chapter 10 Summary and Analysis

Voluntary Poverty and Time

Instant Now: Living the Moment

It is human nature to save for the uncertain future. However, Gandhi writes that a seeker after Truth and a follower of the Laws of Love must put his faith in god that he will be provided for and thus does not have to save against tomorrow. Bertrand Russell addresses this issue, making the observation that saving for future misfortune takes the joy away from today. Seneca speaks of the inherent fear of worry of losing the riches one has.

Homo Ludens: Leisure vs. Idleness

A life that is dedicated to work and disdains leisure is a joyless one. Leisure is not the same as idleness, which is inherently a time that is found to be boring. Leisure allows one to be quiet and learn about himself. Aristotle writes that in quiet...