There is no shortage of books that promise to change the way you see the world. Most of them rely on certainty. They tell you they’ve found the answer and all that’s left is for you to follow along. Becoming a Better Human takes a different approach. It begins with a question instead.
James W. Clement isn’t trying to create another spiritual doctrine. Rather, he combines concepts from philosophy, contemplative practices, near-death experiences and current thinking about consciousness in order to find common ground among them. It is an ambitious premise, but one that is remarkably well controlled. Any time his claims get into speculations and any time the different traditions conflict, Clement lets the reader know. This kind of honesty lends an air of credibility to the book that many books in this genre lack.
The first part of the book is unabashedly philosophical. Anyone looking for quick fixes or practical tips will need to be ready for a slower reading pace. Terms such as the soul, the “I Am”, reincarnation and consciousness are not presented as facts, but as ideas to consider. That’s what makes the book engaging. It creates space for curiosity instead of certainty.
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Where the book truly comes alive is in its final section. The author transitions to practice, discussing meditation, reflection at night, and the concept of an inner observer. However, this discussion is not delivered within the framework of difficult rituals and practices which are exclusively related to spirituality. Instead, the habits the author discusses are simple and easy ways to become more aware.
One of the most appealing things about this book is its ability to be inspired by several different philosophical traditions and yet be independent of any of them. The ideas and thoughts of Plato, Buddhism, Sufism, and consciousness are considered in parallel and not in combination, thus making this book inclusive rather than prescriptive.
This book cannot be read and forgotten right after; instead, it has to be reflected on. While some parts of the book can be read twice, others just give food for thought.
Readers looking for definitive answers may leave disappointed. But those willing to sit with uncertainty will likely find something far more valuable. Becoming a Better Human doesn’t ask you to believe differently. It asks you to pay closer attention. Sometimes, that’s where meaningful change begins.