Finding Humor in Ethics: A Review of How to Be Perfect by Michael Schur
As a devoted fan of The Good Place, I couldn’t resist diving into Michael Schur’s new book, How to Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Question. The unique blend of comedy and moral philosophy that captivated me on screen resurfaces in the pages of this delightfully perplexing exploration. It’s an invitation to mull over our ethical dilemmas while chuckling at our collective human absurdities—much like the show itself did. The only difference? Here, Schur is our charming guide, leading us through the philosophical minefield with wit and a refreshing dose of humility.
Schur sets the stage by exploring complex moral theories from legendary philosophers like Aristotle to contemporary thinkers, attempting to distill their weighty concepts into relatable lessons. It’s a challenging task, but Schur’s talent lies in making the profound feel accessible. He employs a conversational style infused with humor, derailing potential intellectual exhaustion with quips that can catch you off guard. "Damon never used deodorant, and clipped his toenails on the dining room table," he offhandedly mentions, reminding us that sometimes, the most absurd illustrations clarify deeper truths.
Yet, the book doesn’t shy away from the more serious challenges of morality. Schur produces a keen reflection on the notion of “moral exhaustion”—the feeling that no matter how hard we try to do good, the complexities of life defy our best efforts. He addresses this by engaging with relatable, everyday dilemmas like whether to return a shopping cart or how to think about charity. His insight, “Everything in moderation,” strikes a chord, resonating with anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of their decisions.
The pacing of the book mirrors that of a great conversation with a wise friend. Each chapter playfully deconstructs moral puzzles through clever anecdotes and hypotheticals, turning potentially dry philosophical discussions into vigorous thought experiments. While some chapters can feel predictable—an inevitable consequence of diving deeply into philosophical critiques—Schur’s observations remain thought-provoking. For instance, he contrasts Descartes’ singular focus with the Ubuntu philosophy that highlights our interconnected existence. Such reflections reveal how different philosophical frameworks can shape civilizations and, by extension, our lives.
One chapter that particularly struck me was Schur’s analysis of the art of apologizing, where he dissects Ted Cruz’s non-apology with biting humor. This moment, both amusing and enlightening, captures the essence of the book: a balance of critique and playfulness that urges readers to laugh while contemplating their own moral follies.
In the end, How to Be Perfect is a book for those seeking clarity amid the chaos of modern ethics. Its warmth and humor make difficult concepts approachable, encouraging readers to ponder their moral choices without feeling weighed down. Schur wrote this for his children, hoping to guide them through the moral complexities of life—an undertaking that many of us can empathize with as we navigate our own moral landscapes.
This book is perfect for anyone intrigued by the intersection of humor and philosophy—those who appreciated the thoughtful yet comedic lens of The Good Place will find themselves right at home. As I turned the last page, I felt not only entertained but inspired to engage more thoughtfully with the everyday dilemmas of life, knowing that while the answers may be elusive, the conversation itself is well worth the journey.
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