A good life can be defined as continuous happiness, varied accomplishments, and everlasting prosperity. The eternal desire for a good life has influenced philosophers and their reasoning over the years. Many followed ancient religions; while others followed the modern belief of listening to one's heart and therefore oneself. Pascal, Luther and Augustine are some of the philosophers who followed religion and believed that it was the best way to achieve a good life. Other preachers such as Rousseau and Nietzsche believed in following one's heart and conscience to achieve the desired goal. Rousseau presented the idea that humans are born good and that society is what actually turns humans into good or bad people. Furthermore, it delves into the theme of oneself and inner vision rather than outer vision. In this way, a modern and innovative perspective on the good life has been developed since reason cannot only be used in everyday life, but can also represent a more attainable way to achieve good for all members of society. Pascal dedicated his life and knowledge to the study of human perspective and the meaning of God in our lives. As a fervent believer and follower of the word of God, Pascal affirmed the necessity of religion as the driving force of human beings. For this philosopher, God does not only mean endless love and care, but also the supreme good in all. However, Pascal implies that the power of humans is insignificant compared to almighty God. With this he states that a being without God is useless, useless, but above all empty. Pascal's book of Thoughts aims to represent the idea that human existence involves a fundamental paradox, “for we are fundamentally animals, but to the...... medium of paper...... perfectly applied to this theme; however, it is critical to understand the impact we have as we have freedom in our decisions. It is known that our decisions not only impact us as individuals but impact society as every day becomes a new opportunity to love and appreciate what we have. Works Cited Aristotle and Irwin, Terrence, Nicomachean Ethics Second Edition (Indiana: Indianapolis 1999) Blaise Pascal, Pensieri, ed. Charles Guignon (Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company, 1999)Jacques Rousseau, Emile, ed. Charles Guignon (Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company 1999) Merriam-Webster.com, sv “Self-Deception” http://www.merriam-webster.com/ (accessed December 3, 2011) Rick Brainard, “18th Century History: Romanticism the alternative to lighting” 4 December 2011, http://www.history1700s.com/articles/article1064.shtml