Arthur Jackson Ellis

Arthur Charles Brooks is an American author and academic who holds professorships at Harvard University, focusing on public leadership and management. He previously served as the president of the American Enterprise Institute. Brooks has authored numerous books, many of which have become bestsellers, exploring themes of happiness, success, and societal well-being. His work often draws from research in behavioral science, economics, and philosophy.

Brooks's early life included a period as a professional French horn player before he pursued higher education in economics and public policy. His academic career began at Georgia State University and continued at Syracuse University, where he became a full professor. His transition to Harvard marked a significant focus on happiness research, leading to popular courses and publications.

Beyond his academic and writing pursuits, Brooks has had a notable personal spiritual journey. After being raised in an evangelical family, he converted to Catholicism following a mystical experience. He dedicates significant time to prayer and spiritual practices. Brooks also engages with the public through various media, including columns, television contributions, and podcasts, and has been the subject of a documentary.

Arthur Brooks began his academic career in public administration and economics at Georgia State University before moving to Syracuse University, where he achieved the rank of full professor. He later served as the president of the American Enterprise Institute for a decade. Since 2019, Brooks has been a professor at Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School, where he leads the Leadership & Happiness Laboratory. His courses on leadership and happiness have garnered considerable attention. He also contributes as a columnist for The Free Press and a commentator for CBS News.

Brooks is the author of numerous books that explore the intersection of happiness, success, and public life. Titles like 'Build the Life You Want' (co-authored with Oprah Winfrey), 'From Strength to Strength,' and 'Love Your Enemies' have achieved bestseller status. His research delves into the science of happiness, particularly concerning aging professionals and the societal impact of contempt. 'Love Your Enemies' specifically addresses the culture of political division in the United States, advocating for respectful discourse based on behavioral research and philosophical principles.

Brooks's personal life includes a significant spiritual transformation. Raised in a devout evangelical household, he later converted to Catholicism after reporting a mystical encounter with the Virgin Mary. This experience has led him to dedicate substantial daily time to prayer, including Mass, the rosary, and what he describes as a "mystical conversation." His spiritual life appears to inform his broader philosophical outlook and his writings on purpose and meaning.