G.K. Chesterton | The Lie of Success

Subscribe to Sea Harp
/ @seaharp
In the essay "The Fallacy of Success," G.K. Chesterton critiques the genre of self-help books and articles that promise to teach readers how to achieve success. He argues that these works are nonsensical and misleading, as they offer vague and impractical advice without any real substance. Chesterton contends that true success cannot be taught through such books, and that the concept of success itself is often misunderstood. He emphasizes that success in any field comes either from doing good work or from cheating, and he criticizes the obsession with material wealth and social status. Chesterton also mocks the mystical reverence given to successful figures like Vanderbilt and Rothschild, suggesting that such admiration is misplaced and often based on ignorance. Ultimately, he calls for a rejection of these superficial success manuals in favor of more meaningful pursuits.

[@WadeWeigle]

The man was ahead of his time and is still teaching us to this day. I would have enjoyed a talk with him.

[@freedomlive2134]

Always found GK much more enjoyable to digest with a good orator. Love the reader .. I imagine him reading it to us .

[@ToxicMaleAlpha]

People really never change. Vice and virtue remain the 2 poles of our lives. We are moving towards one end or the other. Today most seem to be seeking wealth not God.

[@77agape]

GK is a mighty thinker !

[@user-gb9dg6jn2n]

I always thought that, a good way to make millions was to write a book telling people how they can make millions. People buy it, making you millions. Not so much those who bought it. G.K. Chesterton, the Apostle of Common Sense.

[@jaysmith3361]

Another word for success is emptiness.

[@williamoarlock8634]

Emptiness is fullness for theists.

[@visitur4914]

the wicked boasts of his heart's desire; He blesses the greedy and renounces the Lord. The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts. His ways are always prospering; Your judgments are far above, out of his sight; Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will prepare their heart; You will cause Your ear to hear, To do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, That the man of the earth may oppress no more.

[@ronginther1986]

Call anyone a failure in success-worshiping America and you are calling that person a social leper. You get utter shock and repudiation. We who are "successful" in this society have ears, minds, and hearts of asses.

[@anthonyfowler2623]

😮