The Essays of Arthur Schopenhauer; On Human Nature By: Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860)
In "The Essays of Arthur Schopenhauer; On Human Nature," renowned philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer delves into the depths of human existence, provoking thought and challenging conventional wisdom. With his signature wit and intellectual acuity, Schopenhauer explores various aspects of human nature, offering readers a profound understanding of our intricate psychological makeup. The collection of essays spans a wide range of topics, from the tyranny of the crowd to the nature of genius. Schopenhauer dissects the human condition, shining a light on our innate desires, fears, and motivations. He argues against the prevailing belief that humans are rational beings, instead asserting that we are fundamentally driven by our will-to-live, often acting impulsively and irrationally. One particularly intriguing essay examines the concept of compassion. Schopenhauer argues that genuine compassion arises when we recognize the suffering of others, transcending our own egos and selfish desires. He presents a compelling case for the power of empathy in fostering a more harmonious society, highlighting the moral imperative to alleviate the suffering of fellow human beings. Furthermore, Schopenhauer's exploration of the dichotomy between egoism and altruism offers invaluable insights into the complexities of human relationships. He contends that true altruism, devoid of any hidden self-interest, is rare and difficult to attain. Yet, recognizing the inherent interconnectedness of all sentient beings, Schopenhauer emphasizes the importance of cultivating empathy and compassion in our interactions with others. Throughout the book, Schopenhauer's writing exhibits a remarkable depth of wisdom and keen observation of the human psyche. His elegant prose, though at times dense, is thought-provoking and remarkably relevant to contemporary society. While some readers may find his pessimistic worldview disheartening, others may appreciate the unflinching honesty with which he critiques the often misguided and irrational nature of humanity. "The Essays of Arthur Schopenhauer; On Human Nature" is an enlightening read, challenging readers to question their preconceived notions about human behavior and society. Schopenhauer's profound insights, coupled with his unique philosophical perspective, make this collection a timeless treasure for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition. First Page: THE ESSAYS OF ARTHUR SCHOPENHAUER TRANSLATED BY T. BAILEY SAUNDERS, M.A. ON HUMAN NATURE. CONTENTS. HUMAN NATURE GOVERNMENT FREE WILL AND FATALISM CHARACTER MORAL INSTINCT ETHICAL REFLECTIONS TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. The following essays are drawn from the chapters entitled Zur Ethik and Zur Rechtslehre und Politik which are to be found both in Schopenhauer's Parerga and in his posthumous writings. As in my previous volumes, so also in this, I have omitted a few passages which appeared to me to be either antiquated or no longer of any general interest. For convenience' sake I have divided the original chapters into sections, which I have had to name; and I have also had to invent a title which should express their real scope. The reader will find that it is not so much Ethics and Politics that are here treated, as human nature itself in various aspects. T.B.S. HUMAN NATURE. Truths of the physical order may possess much external significance, but internal significance they have none. The latter is the privilege of intellectual and moral truths, which are concerned with the objectivation of the will in its highest stages, whereas physical truths are concerned with it in its lowest. For example, if we could establish the truth of what up till now is only a conjecture, namely, that it is the action of the sun which produces thermoelectricity at the equator; that this produces terrestrial magnetism; and that this magnetism, again, is the cause of the aurora borealis , these would be truths externally of great, but internally of little, significance... Continue reading book >>

The Essays of Arthur Schopenhauer; On Human Nature By: Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860)

In "The Essays of Arthur Schopenhauer; On Human Nature," renowned philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer delves into the depths of human existence, provoking thought and challenging conventional wisdom. With his signature wit and intellectual acuity, Schopenhauer explores various aspects of human nature, offering readers a profound understanding of our intricate psychological makeup.

The collection of essays spans a wide range of topics, from the tyranny of the crowd to the nature of genius. Schopenhauer dissects the human condition, shining a light on our innate desires, fears, and motivations. He argues against the prevailing belief that humans are rational beings, instead asserting that we are fundamentally driven by our will-to-live, often acting impulsively and irrationally.

One particularly intriguing essay examines the concept of compassion. Schopenhauer argues that genuine compassion arises when we recognize the suffering of others, transcending our own egos and selfish desires. He presents a compelling case for the power of empathy in fostering a more harmonious society, highlighting the moral imperative to alleviate the suffering of fellow human beings.

Furthermore, Schopenhauer's exploration of the dichotomy between egoism and altruism offers invaluable insights into the complexities of human relationships. He contends that true altruism, devoid of any hidden self-interest, is rare and difficult to attain. Yet, recognizing the inherent interconnectedness of all sentient beings, Schopenhauer emphasizes the importance of cultivating empathy and compassion in our interactions with others.

Throughout the book, Schopenhauer's writing exhibits a remarkable depth of wisdom and keen observation of the human psyche. His elegant prose, though at times dense, is thought-provoking and remarkably relevant to contemporary society. While some readers may find his pessimistic worldview disheartening, others may appreciate the unflinching honesty with which he critiques the often misguided and irrational nature of humanity.

"The Essays of Arthur Schopenhauer; On Human Nature" is an enlightening read, challenging readers to question their preconceived notions about human behavior and society. Schopenhauer's profound insights, coupled with his unique philosophical perspective, make this collection a timeless treasure for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition.

First Page:

THE ESSAYS

ARTHUR SCHOPENHAUER

TRANSLATED BY

T. BAILEY SAUNDERS, M.A.

ON HUMAN NATURE.

CONTENTS.

HUMAN NATURE GOVERNMENT FREE WILL AND FATALISM CHARACTER MORAL INSTINCT ETHICAL REFLECTIONS

TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE.

The following essays are drawn from the chapters entitled Zur Ethik and Zur Rechtslehre und Politik which are to be found both in Schopenhauer's Parerga and in his posthumous writings. As in my previous volumes, so also in this, I have omitted a few passages which appeared to me to be either antiquated or no longer of any general interest. For convenience' sake I have divided the original chapters into sections, which I have had to name; and I have also had to invent a title which should express their real scope. The reader will find that it is not so much Ethics and Politics that are here treated, as human nature itself in various aspects.

T.B.S.

HUMAN NATURE.

Truths of the physical order may possess much external significance, but internal significance they have none. The latter is the privilege of intellectual and moral truths, which are concerned with the objectivation of the will in its highest stages, whereas physical truths are concerned with it in its lowest.

For example, if we could establish the truth of what up till now is only a conjecture, namely, that it is the action of the sun which produces thermoelectricity at the equator; that this produces terrestrial magnetism; and that this magnetism, again, is the cause of the aurora borealis , these would be truths externally of great, but internally of little, significance... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Philosophy
Science

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