The series is structured around six specific philosophers, each offering a "cure" for a particular human affliction:
Philosophy: A Guide to Happiness is a highly regarded 6-part TV documentary series (2000) written and presented by British philosopher . It is widely praised as a "masterpiece of philosophy" that makes complex ancient and modern ideas accessible and applicable to everyday life. Overview of the Series Philosophy: A Guide to Happiness
: Draws from Stoic philosophy to suggest that lowering expectations can reduce disappointment and subsequent anger. The series is structured around six specific philosophers,
: Argues that significant suffering and overcoming difficulty are essential requirements for reaching anything worthwhile. Critical Reception Philosophy: A Guide to Happiness
: Encourages acceptance of one’s ordinary, "animal" nature—including physical flaws and intellectual limitations—to overcome feelings of inadequacy.
: Offers a more cynical view, framing love as a biological urge for procreation and cautioning against building all happiness upon it.