L. Annaeus Seneca on Benefits

About the book

Seneca's seven books examine the giving, receiving, and returning of benefits. He distinguishes the outward object exchanged from the intention that gives an action its moral character, then tests that distinction against difficult cases. Can a benefit be repaid, demanded back, or bestowed upon someone unworthy? What happens when status, dependency, or resentment distorts an apparent kindness? Stories and arguments move through the unequal relationships of Roman society, including those between rulers and subjects, parents and children, and enslavers and enslaved people. The resulting work is more searching than a manual of courteous behavior. It asks whether generosity can remain generous when giver and recipient begin calculating obligation, advantage, or public credit.

• Generosity and gratitude
• Intention and obligation
• Unequal relationships

Why read it

Follow a sustained philosophical inquiry into the expectations hidden inside apparently simple acts of giving.

English version associated with Aubrey Stewart