Life Is Hard by Kieran Setiya is a philosophical exploration of how to navigate life’s challenges. Drawing on a broad range of sources, from ancient philosophy to modern memoirs, Setiya offers a compassionate and accessible guide to coping with adversity. The book provides insights on facing life’s inherent difficulties, from personal loss to broader social injustices, and how to find meaning and resilience amidst them. Instead of seeking unattainable perfection, Setiya encourages readers to embrace life’s difficulties with grace and understanding, offering solace for those in tough times.

In Determined, Robert M. Sapolsky challenges the concept of free will, delving into the intersection of biology, philosophy, and psychology to argue that free will is an illusion. Through a synthesis of cutting-edge science, Sapolsky examines how our brains are shaped by genetics, environment, and unconscious forces. The book invites readers to reconsider the concepts of morality, responsibility, and punishment, offering a thought-provoking exploration of human behavior and decision-making.