Review of In It Together

[Gabriela Contreras Gonzalez]

[Following is a volunteer review of "In It Together" by Eckhart Aurelius Hughes.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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What connects humans? Why are some humans suffering, and we do nothing to stop it? Why do we take joy when someone who has hurt us suffers? In It Together: The Beautiful Struggle Uniting Us All by Eckhart Aurelius Hughes is a philosophical book that explores how humans can unify into a better society. Using several human skills like empathy, Hughes takes the reader on a powerful journey of self-analysis. This book will make readers question how they interact with others, how they react toward suffering, how they see the world, and how they can do better.

Philosophical books often seem too dense and complex for the average reader. I have to admit that I was overwhelmed when I started reading the book, as I was uncertain if I was going to be able to understand everything Hughes said. The book shares some strong opinions, but it also shares some inspirational phrases, metaphors, and examples to alleviate the philosophical discussion. One of my favorite quotes was at the beginning of the book when Hughes wrote, “Love, equality, freedom, and peace may be the most dangerously controversial subjects about which one can speak.” I knew I was going to love this book, and I was right. I appreciated the hard questions and examples, as they made me analyze how I see human suffering and how I interact with others (by forgiving those who have wronged me, for example). It was hard to accept some of Hughes's ideas, as the book is meant to inspire change and open one’s mind and not force anyone to agree with them. There were several eye-opening moments, like the reflex of rationalizing human suffering, as often I’ve said, “They deserve it.”

Right now, when everyone is focused on “us versus them,” fighting wars and dividing humanity, In It Together was a nice symbol of hope. The book has been professionally edited and is completely free from errors but at times can feel overwhelming and repetitive. This did not take away from my experience, and it probably helped me understand the book better. The book is suitable for young adults and adults with an open mind and heart, and I am certain it will start conversations. Because of everything I have said, I am glad to give it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

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In It Together
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