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Altruism

The Power of Compassion to Change Yourself and the World

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Altruism

By: Matthieu Ricard
Narrated by: Dan Woren
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About this listen

In Happiness, Matthieu Ricard demonstrated that true happiness is not tied to fleeting moments or sensations but is an enduring state of soul rooted in mindfulness and compassion for others.

Now he turns his lens from the personal to the global, with a rousing argument that altruism - genuine concern for the well-being of others - could be the saving grace of the 21st century. It is, he believes, the vital thread that can answer the main challenges of our time: the economy in the short term, life satisfaction in the midterm, and environment in the long term.

Ricard's message has been taken up by major economists and thinkers, including Dennis Snower, Amartya Sen, Joseph Stiglitz and George Soros.

Matthieu Ricard makes a robust and passionate case for cultivating altruistic love and compassion as the best means for simultaneously benefiting ourselves and our society. It's a fresh outlook on an ardent struggle and one that just might make the world a better place.

©2015 Matthieu Ricard. Translation © 2015 by Little Brown and Company. (P)2015 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd Personal Development Personal Success Spirituality

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Critic reviews

"Matthieu Ricard brings together ancient wisdom and scientific insights to put forth a truly compelling global vision for the 21st century, and his voice, his message and his wisdom are greatly needed." (Arianna Huffington)
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A remarkably long listen, but entirely worthwhile. Ricard explores Altruism from philosophical, psychological, political, ecological and sociological perspectives. A compelling call to develop a life with Altruism at it's center.

A Thorough Analysis on a Core Virtue

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A fantastic book that examines practically every important issue of today and doesn't pull it's punches in any of them.

Insightful and inspiring

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A long and in depth look at basically every aspect of life, some uncomfortable reading, alot which is enlightening but in all causes to question your own thoughts, actions and beliefs!

Very detailed and in-depth

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I read Ricard’s previous book Happiness and really enjoyed it. Sadly I found Altruism quite disappointing. I expected it to be more about the cultivation of altruism and the spiritual aspect. However much of the book was almost a political treatise. While it’s difficult to argue with a lot of the points made it was not what I was looking to read/listen to. Also it was 29 hours long! I found it a real slog to get through.

Disappointing

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