Emrys Westacott Book order

From Socrates to Thoreau, most philosophers, moralists, and religious leaders have seen frugality as a virtue and have associated simple living with wisdom, integrity, and happiness. But why? And are they right? Is a taste for luxury fundamentally misguided? If one has the means to be a spendthrift, is it foolish or reprehensible to be extravagant? The Wisdom of Frugality explores what simplicity means, why it's supposed to make us better and happier, and why, despite its benefits, it has always been such a hard sell. The book looks not only at the arguments in favor of living frugally and simply, but also at the case that can be made for luxury and extravagance, including the idea that modern economies require lots of getting and spending.

Exploring the unconventional benefits of commonly perceived vices, this book invites readers to reconsider their views on habits often deemed negative. It delves into how these behaviors can foster creativity, resilience, and social bonding, challenging conventional wisdom. By highlighting the hidden advantages of indulgence, the author encourages a more nuanced understanding of human behavior and its complexities, ultimately suggesting that what we often label as flaws might hold unexpected value in our lives.