The Second Mountain

by David Brooks
The Second Mountain cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Self-Help and Personal Development
Technical
  • ID: 3883
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • ISBN: 9780241400692
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2019-04-16
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Second Mountain,' David Brooks challenges the conventional pursuit of self-interest and material success, advocating for a life defined by deeper connections and moral purpose. He explores the transition from the first mountain of individual achievement to the second mountain of community, commitment, and devotion. Brooks delves into the four commitments that guide this journey: family, vocation, philosophy, and community. Through personal stories and insightful analysis, he illustrates how these commitments can lead to a more meaningful and joyful life, ultimately helping readers find their true purpose.

Reviews
Spectrum Magazine · 2019-11-11
uplifting 4.25

The book is seen as a call to turn away from individualism and embrace community and moral values. The reviewer finds it a powerful and necessary read.

Spectrum Magazine's review of 'The Second Mountain' emphasizes Brooks' argument that true fulfillment comes from rejecting societal pressures for individual achievement and instead embracing community and moral values. The reviewer finds this message powerful and necessary in today's self-centered world. They appreciate Brooks' blend of personal stories and broader societal commentary, making the book both relatable and thought-provoking. The call to a more moral and connected life is seen as a refreshing and important perspective.

Quick quotes

    The second mountain, says Brooks, is characterized by turning away from cultural pressures for individual achievement, self-interest, money, ...

    It is part parable, part manifesto, and part memoir.

    Brooks' exploration of the second mountain is both personal and universal.

The Guardian · 2019-05-14
inspiring 4.00

The book argues that midlife satisfaction comes from committing to a cause or community. The reviewer finds it compelling but notes it may not resonate with everyone.

The Guardian's review highlights how David Brooks' 'The Second Mountain' explores the idea that true fulfillment in midlife comes from dedicating oneself to something larger than personal success. The reviewer appreciates the book's insightful perspective on finding meaning through community and moral commitments. However, they acknowledge that Brooks' views might not align with everyone's experiences or beliefs, making the book a thought-provoking but not universally applicable read.

Quick quotes

    The New York Times columnist's best book yet argues that we won't find midlife satisfaction until we commit to a cause or community.

    It is part parable, part manifesto, and part memoir.

    Brooks' exploration of the second mountain is both personal and universal.

Medium · RationalBadger · 2019-05-14
enlightening 4.50

The reviewer considers this one of the best books they've read, despite not agreeing with everything. They find it thought-provoking and valuable.

RationalBadger from Medium raves about 'The Second Mountain,' calling it one of the best books they've ever read. They appreciate the depth and breadth of Brooks' arguments, even if they don't agree with every point. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of moral life and personal commitments particularly compelling, making it a valuable read despite some disagreements. The personal anecdotes and broader philosophical discussions are highlighted as standout elements.

Quick quotes

    This may be one of the best books I have ever read.

    There is plenty in it that I don't entirely agree with.

    It is one of the very few books that has fundamentally changed how I think about my life.

Appears in Lists