Docwra's preface for the importance of perspective does indeed prevent "a restricted...view of the world" (p. 13). He does well to discuss environmental challenges and the intersection with human impact that is further crippled by our sense of autonomy and apathy for behavior modification. There were several sections in this book for which I share his agreement.

As someone who holds to a high view of religious ideology and the concept of family/traditions, I could not meet this author in his objectivity that "these ideas are simply made up, arbitrary, invented fictions...rather than eternal truths" (p. 24). Humanity has of course moved through different ages and eras where tradition, reason and empirical evidence held more weight than they might for many in the present day. However, I am not convinced Docwra makes a successful case that those who think differently than he does are mistaken. Postmodernity opines there is no truth but Docwra appears to want to strongly exert his truth by which we all should simply tacitly accept. The birth of Christ was a historical occurrence that split time (BC/AD), so I don't know how he can deny the reality of that event. Though, I was especially moved by Docwra's reference to St. Augustine on the concept of time.

It's quite apparent and distracting how atheistic undertones abound throughout much of this book, which is unnecessary especially in areas such as his section on science. Religious thinkers can and should accept the scientific method--and for people who believe in God, they can and should accept His unknowable workings. So the either/or option Docwra sets up is unhelpful.

I do agree that authority figures can cause some people to blindly accept a perspective on life that may not be true in reality. However, even though Rome's conversion to a Christian nation-state resulted in heightened Christian nationalism and persecution of non-adherants--this does not mean that the baby has to be thrown out with the bathwater. What Rome did was wrong, but it does not mean the message itself was inherently flawed.

Life...And How to Think About It is an entry-level book that aims to serve as a map to help teach people how to think for themselves and live an examined life.

At times repetitive and simplistic, with an informal and approachable language (not unlike ...For Dummies guides), it is perhaps best suited for teens and beginners, having little to offer those who have read similar books.

It is structured around “big questions” such as ‘what am I’ and ‘what is the meaning of life’. The aim is not to provide concrete answers to those questions, but help the readers do their own thinking. The author does occasionally answer some of these questions with his own views, attaching judgment values to some of them.

Written from an atheistic and scientific standpoint, it attempts – but sometimes fails – not to be condescending towards religious beliefs and thus, could alienate certain readers. However, bearing in mind that the ability to question long-held beliefs is the point of the book, some level of discomfort may be necessary.

Overall, it is a helpful guide that touches on necessary topics and skills, such as critical thinking and fact-checking, and it can provide a good starting point for anyone willing to live a more considered life. It offers helpful exercises throughout, and contains a handy list of books for further reading.

Lastly, it must be noted that the author occasionally colours his writing with his own political biases, and thus the readers must apply such critical thinking skills instead of accepting every claim at face value.