(1/2) The World As Will And Idea By Arthur Schopenhauer. Audiobook - full length, free

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"The World as Will and Representation" (German: "Die Welt als Wille und Vorstellung") is a philosophical masterpiece written by the 19th-century German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer. Originally published in 1818, with a revised edition in 1844, the book is considered one of the most influential works in Western philosophy and a significant departure from the dominant philosophical currents of Schopenhauer's time.

Summary:

1. Two Worlds: Schopenhauer's magnum opus explores the nature of reality and posits that there are two fundamental aspects of the world: the "Will" and "Representation." He argues that the world can be understood through these two distinct lenses.

2. The Will: Schopenhauer's concept of the "Will" is central to his philosophy. He defines the Will as the inner, irrational, and insatiable driving force that underlies all existence. This Will is not limited to human desires but extends to all living and non-living things in the universe. It is a blind, striving, and omnipresent force, forever seeking satisfaction and expression.

3. Representation: In contrast to the Will, Schopenhauer's notion of "Representation" refers to the way our senses and intellect perceive and construct the world. This is the aspect of the world that we experience through our consciousness and mental representations. Schopenhauer heavily draws from Kant's philosophy in this regard but introduces his unique perspective on the subject.

4. Pessimism: One of the most distinctive features of Schopenhauer's philosophy is his pessimistic outlook. He believes that the world is a place of suffering and that the constant striving of the Will leads to an unsatisfactory existence. Human desires and wants are insatiable, and the pursuit of these desires often leads to pain and suffering.

5. Asceticism: Schopenhauer proposes that one way to mitigate suffering is through asceticism. By reducing one's attachment to worldly desires and transcending the relentless pursuit of the Will, individuals can find a measure of relief from suffering. He often cites Eastern philosophies, particularly Buddhism, as examples of this approach.

6. Art and Aesthetics: Schopenhauer argues that art offers a unique escape from the suffering imposed by the Will. When we engage with true works of art, we momentarily lose our individuality and become one with the object of our contemplation. This, according to Schopenhauer, provides a respite from the relentless striving of the Will and a glimpse into a higher reality.

7. Metaphysical Implications: Schopenhauer's work has important metaphysical implications. He suggests that beyond the world of appearances, there exists a metaphysical reality where individuality dissolves, and the distinction between subject and object disappears. This metaphysical realm is akin to Eastern notions of enlightenment and unity.

8. Influence: Schopenhauer's philosophy had a significant influence on various thinkers, including Friedrich Nietzsche, Sigmund Freud, and Richard Wagner. Nietzsche, in particular, was heavily influenced by Schopenhauer's ideas but later developed his own distinct philosophy.

"The World as Will and Representation" is a dense and complex philosophical work that challenges conventional Western philosophical thought. Schopenhauer's emphasis on the inherent suffering in human existence, his exploration of the Will, and his consideration of Eastern philosophical ideas have made his work enduring and influential in the world of philosophy and beyond.

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More: Arthur Schopenhauer, The World As Will And Idea, Audiobook
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