The School of Life , introduced by Alain de Botton, is a compendium of writings from The School of Life Press bringing together a decade of research on emotional intelligence. Founded in 2008, The School of Life is based in 10 branches worldwide, and applies the principles of philosophy, psychology and culture to day-to-day life through films, workshops, books and gifts. Alain de Botton has helped bring accessible philosophy to millions of people through his bestselling books, including How Proust Can Change Your Life and The Consolations of Philosophy.