Is 'How To Be Perfect' Worth Reading For Moral Guidance?

2026-01-06 23:32:20
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3 Answers

Peter
Peter
Bookworm Pharmacist
'How to Be Perfect' stood out because it refuses to take itself too seriously. Schur’s background in comedy shines through, but don’t mistake the humor for shallowness—the book grapples with real ethical frameworks, from Kant to contemporary thinkers. What I appreciated most was how it acknowledges the absurdity of striving for moral flawlessness while still encouraging small, meaningful improvements. The section on 'moral dessert' (the idea of doing good just to feel superior) hit close to home—I caught myself nodding along, guilty as charged.

It’s not a replacement for dense philosophical texts, but that’s the point. Schur distills big ideas into relatable scenarios, like whether it’s okay to lie to spare someone’s feelings. I’d recommend it to anyone who feels overwhelmed by traditional ethics books but still wants to engage with the subject. Bonus: the audiobook, narrated by the author and cast of 'The Good Place,' is an absolute delight. It’s like having a witty friend walk you through life’s gray areas.
2026-01-07 06:53:04
17
Quinn
Quinn
Detail Spotter Police Officer
I picked up 'How to Be Perfect' on a whim after seeing it mentioned in a philosophy forum, and honestly, it’s one of those rare books that balances humor with deep introspection. Michael Schur, the creator of 'The Good Place,' brings his signature wit to ethical dilemmas, making complex ideas like utilitarianism and deontology surprisingly accessible. The book doesn’t preach or claim to have all the answers—instead, it feels like a friendly conversation about why we struggle to do the 'right' thing. I especially loved the chapter on moral luck, which made me rethink how I judge others (and myself). It’s not a rigid guidebook, but if you’re looking for a thoughtful, engaging take on morality, this is a gem.

That said, don’t expect a step-by-step manual. Schur leans heavily into the messiness of ethics, and while his pop-culture references (like 'Trolley Problem' memes) keep things light, the underlying questions are weighty. I found myself pausing often to scribble notes or debate with friends. If you enjoy 'The Good Place,' you’ll recognize his style immediately—quirky, self-aware, and deeply human. For me, the real value was in how it reframed everyday choices as tiny moral acts. It’s less about perfection and more about trying, which feels refreshingly honest.
2026-01-08 04:55:06
17
Laura
Laura
Book Scout Translator
I’m usually skeptical of books with grandiose titles, but 'How to Be Perfect' won me over by admitting upfront that perfection is impossible. Schur’s approach is conversational, almost like he’s sitting across from you at a bar, debating whether it’s ethical to use Alexa to settle arguments. The book’s strength lies in its humility—it presents ethics as an ongoing practice, not a finish line. I dog-eared so many pages, especially the one where he admits to failing his own moral tests (like buying fast fashion). That vulnerability makes the advice feel attainable. If you want a mix of laughs and 'oh damn' moments, this delivers.
2026-01-09 02:13:29
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