Book Review & Synopsis of The Road to Character by David Brooks
Review by Robert Steiner MS, M.Ed, JD
In The Road to Character, David Brooks takes readers on an exploration of the deeper, moral aspects of life, contrasting two different sets of virtues: the "résumé virtues" and the "eulogy virtues." Brooks argues that modern society places an excessive emphasis on the résumé virtues—skills that bring external success such as wealth, fame, and power—at the expense of the eulogy virtues, which are more internal and define who we are at our core, such as kindness, bravery, honesty, and faithfulness.
Brooks traces the lives of several historical figures, each of whom battled their own moral failings in order to become exemplars of strong character. Some of the figures discussed include President Dwight D. Eisenhower, civil rights leader A. Philip Randolph, and writer George Eliot. Each individual faced personal struggles, and through these conflicts, they forged their own paths to character development. Brooks uses their stories to illustrate his main thesis: that character is built not through external success, but through internal struggle, suffering, and the conscious pursuit of moral virtue.
The book is structured around a central distinction between two selves that Brooks calls "Adam I" and "Adam II." Adam I represents the external, ambitious self that wants to build, create, and conquer the world, while Adam II represents the internal self that seeks to embody humility, love, and moral goodness. According to Brooks, much of modern life is geared toward the advancement of Adam I, leading to a culture focused on achievement, individualism, and material success. Meanwhile, Adam II, the self focused on moral depth and virtue, is often neglected.
Brooks argues that the lives of the individuals he profiles reveal that building character requires a constant internal battle. They endured failures and personal crises, and it was through grappling with their flaws that they developed a sense of moral integrity. In this sense, the road to character is not a straightforward path but a rugged, unpredictable journey of self-confrontation and self-transcendence.
One of the central themes of the book is the importance of humility. Brooks contends that true humility comes from recognizing one's weaknesses and shortcomings. This humility is not self-deprecation, but rather an acknowledgment that life is not all about personal ambition. It’s about service, relationships, and moral growth. He challenges readers to shift their focus away from the self-centered pursuit of résumé virtues and towards the more fulfilling pursuit of eulogy virtues—those qualities that form the foundation of a meaningful and virtuous life.
In his final chapters, Brooks provides his own reflection on how individuals today can cultivate character in a world dominated by self-promotion and shallow success. He calls for a revival of the moral vocabulary that once defined earlier generations—a language of sacrifice, duty, and love for others. In this context, Brooks advocates for a life grounded in community and service, where the pursuit of external achievements is balanced by a deeper quest for moral goodness.
Review
David Brooks' The Road to Character is a thought-provoking, insightful meditation on what it means to live a life of virtue. One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to present complex philosophical ideas in an accessible and engaging way. Through historical biographies and personal anecdotes, Brooks illustrates how character is developed not through easy successes, but through hardship, moral struggle, and self-reflection.
Some have argued that Brooks presents an overly nostalgic view of the past, implying that the virtues of earlier generations were purer or better developed than those of today. I would argue that Brooks critigues modern and classic virtues on a level playing field. He would argue that some aspects of modern culture are superficial in thier reasoning and not fully fleshed out as a feasible path to virtue. While Brooks raises important questions about the state of modern culture, his critique can feel over generalized at times. This is perhaps because this is not meant to function as a cultural critique.
Nonetheless, The Road to Character is an important contribution to the discussion about what it means to live a meaningful life in the modern world. Brooks' call to refocus on the eulogy virtues is a refreshing reminder that personal success is not the ultimate measure of a life well-lived. Instead, it is through acts of humility, kindness, and moral courage that we truly build character and leave a lasting legacy.
For those seeking a reflective, morally grounded approach to personal development, Brooks' book offers both inspiration and guidance on how to walk the challenging road to character.
For further information or to discuss any legal matters, please contact Attorney Robert Steiner at (205) 826-4421 or via email at robert@steinerfirm.com. Whether you have questions about this article or need personalized legal advice, he is available to assist you.
