Becoming Wise: An Inquiry into the Mystery and Art of Living by Krista Tippett

Krista Tippett’s Becoming Wise is a guide to living life as a modern individual. Through a series of interviews with some of the world’s foremost thinkers and authors, the book dives into the depths of wisdom, asking what it means to live with meaning and purpose. Tippett’s aim is to help individuals find their own sense of purpose and become “wise”—self-aware, authors of their own lives, and empathetic to others.

The book offers a timeless look at what it means to be wise in a modern world. Tippett interviews a variety of people from different disciplines, including spiritual teachers, religious leaders, scientists, historians, philosophers, writers, and theologians. She asks the questions “What is wisdom?”, “How do we become wise?” and “What is the purpose of life?” Tippett's exploration of these questions reveals the many voices of wisdom and reveals the various ways in which individuals can live with greater understanding and purpose.

The readers will learn about the thought-provoking perspectives of her interviewees. This includes the discoveries of physicist Erik Verlinde; the ideas of historian and author Rebecca Solnit on how individuals can shape the future, and the thoughts of theologian James Olthuis on how to live a life of faith. Tippett also introduces readers to religious and spiritual teachers such as Rabbi Rachel Cowan, who speaks on cultivating holiness; Thich Nhat Hanh, who encourages mindfulness; and Episcopal Bishop Mark Beckwith, who explains the importance of moral courage.

The conversations in the book act as a guide for individuals who are looking for more than just a fleeting sense of joy and satisfaction. Tippett uses her interviews to bring attention to the individual's power and agency in making the world a better place. She emphasizes the need to look within and understand our motivations. This includes the ability to recognize our own limits and how to contact our own deeper feelings of purpose and connection.

At the same time, Becoming Wise encourages individuals to recognize the importance of recognizing the humanity and value of others. Through her interviews, Tippett celebrates the diversity of perspective and voices in our world. Each individual she speaks with has a unique definition of wisdom that is grounded in their own lived experience and values. This serves as an ongoing reminder of our shared humanity and the need to stay open to learning new perspectives.

Ultimately, Becoming Wise offers readers a new definition of wisdom and provides an uplifting vision of what it means to live a good life. It serves as an essential guide for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of the world, themselves, and the people around them. With her blend of interviews, philosophy, and cultural analysis, Tippett provides an engaging and inspiring guide to personal growth and self-discovery.