E-grāmata: Improvement of the Mind

Written by Isaac Watts, a noted clergyman and hymn writer, the first edition of Improvement of the Mind was published 1727. Now made available once again by Forgotten Books, this republication is based on the 1885 version of the book. Watts' book is best thought of as an almost three hundred year old self-help guide.

While a man of the church, Watts did not let the views of Christianity too greatly influence his thinking. Improvement of the Mind is largely based on the philosophical school of logic. Watts believed that man can improve himself through simple, conscientious activities, and has outlined these activities in this text. The book opens with a list of sixteen general rules for the improvement of knowledge. From there, Watts proceeds to narrow his focus, with subsequent chapters focused on specific topics. Sections include an overview on books and reading, a guide for study and meditation, an instructional on how to improve one's memory, and many other useful subjects. In all, twenty chapters are included, all of which contain valuable, applicable advice.

It is impressive to find such practical work in a book dating to 1727. While some of the prose is clearly of 18th century origin, the concepts and ideas forwarded are every bit as useful today as the day they were written. This is an inspirational book, and one that can doubtlessly be used by individuals as a guide to self-betterment.

Improvement of the Mind is a timeless work, and surely one of the first great self-improvement guides. As a practical work of philosophy, it absolutely deserves a place in your collection, whether you are a regular reader of self-help books or not. Highly recommended.