Self-Help Books Corrupt; Philosophy Heals

A course in philosophical critique of self-help literature - and an alternative life philosophy.

The internet and bookstores are full of advice on better living: conventional recommendations about weight loss, exercise and wealth alongside more alternative promises of peace of mind through long walks or improved sex life through special exercises. The problem is that this advice rarely tells the whole story. Most self-help books are based on incomplete research or personal experience and don't go deeper than the surface culture they were written in.

Over four Wednesday evenings, the course examines some of the most widespread self-help philosophies: what worldview they rest on, where their limitations lie, and what alternatives the philosophical tradition can offer.

Dates - all at 19:00:
• Wednesday 21 October 2026
• Wednesday 28 October 2026
• Wednesday 4 November 2026
• Wednesday 11 November 2026

The course is led by Emil Skovlykke Carlsen, cand.mag. in philosophy and a full-time high school teacher and lecturer. The event takes place in collaboration with Vordingborg Folkeuniversitet.