The Road Less Traveled

A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth
Author: M. Scott Peck, M.D.
Genre: nonfiction
Publication info: Touchstone, 2003 (first published in 1978)
Pages: 315

First one of my professors said this was the most important book he read besides the scriptures. Then a psychologist friend told me that every family should have this volume in their library. Now it's my turn to recommend this book to everyone I know and, by virtue of this blog, to people I don't know.

The Road Less Traveled is psychiatrist's views on life, garnered from years of giving therapy to a wide variety of patients. Dr. Peck treats the subjects of discipline, love, religion, and grace, all with the aim of helping us to achieve greater mental health. Few people, Peck believes, really have good mental health.

A lot of what he says are things you've probably heard before, or at least they should make sense. A disciplined person delays gratification to gain deeper happiness. Real love involves recognizing your beloved as a separate person. Stuff like that. But it's one thing to understand a principle and another to live by it. Our biggest problem, collectively and individually, is laziness, Says Peck. The resistance to change.

Of course, I'm not suggesting that you buy everything Peck says wholesale. I don't agree with all the points he makes. His views on religion may especially rub people the wrong way. But I recommend this book to all because it has important points that would be beneficial to anyone. The sections on discipline and love would probably be the most helpful, but I recommend reading the whole book. If you don't agree with it, fine, but at least you'll have thought about it.

Yes, I wouldn't put this book above actual scripture. But as a book that tries to make its reader a better person, it does a pretty dang good job. I think I've become at least a slightly better person from having read it. Now it's your turn. See if it can make a better person out of you.