Philosophical Writings: Arthur Schopenhauer [Paperback]

The 16 chapters here correspond to chapters in his works, although there are no indications from where in Schopenhauer's oeuvre they are being pulled-- the collections's major flaw. However there is literally no aspect of Schopenhauer's major points that is not given a voice here. "On Thinking For Oneself" is a chapter out of the second volume of the Parerga; as is his essay "On Suicide" and "Additional Remarks on the Doctrine of the Suffering of the World." From the second volume of _The World as Will and Representation_ we get an essay "On the Fundamental View of Idealism" as well as "On the Affirmation of the Will-To-Live." "The Foundation of Ethics" is a lengthy section of _On the Basis of Morality_. Only 2 of the 16 sections feature abridgment of any kind: "Aphorisms on the Wisdom of Life" has long been available as a separate book, although it is part of the first volume of the Parega; and Schopenhauer's summary statement, the important fourth section of the first volume of _The World as Will and Representation_, is here in a 75 page chunk of the original 143 pages.

If there is a complaint to this book, it is that it does not give full expression to Schopenhauer's personality-- for example, his views on women. However this is not essential, and as stated this compilation does excellently in presenting the force and insight of Schopenhauer's thought in one set of covers. Schirmacher's introduction is lively and presents Schopenhauer as a still-important, still-relevant presence in the contemporary world-- easy to say of someone who forshadowed the advancements of Einstein, Freud and Darwin.

With statements on ethics, metaphysics, aesthetics, and politics, I would point anyone who wants Schopenhauer in 300 pages or less to make this purchase. As an avid reader of the man I honestly recommend Schopenhauer's larger works in their entirety; however for the reader prohibited by time or schedule, this is the best selection available, and can serve as an introductory text as well.

Schopenhaur, the philosopher who first brought Buddhist insights into mainstream European philosophy, remains a paradox. On one hand, he acknowledges that life is a disappointment and almost all is vanity. On the other hand, sensual pleasure provides some solace and a solid foundation for an ethics of compassion.

While I often had to reread several passages a few times to extract some clear understanding, this influential tome provides an excellent overview of a controversial philosopher whose ideas continue to inspire and confuse.

I found Schopenhaur's harsh denunciation of nationalism particularly interesting given the fact that he was writing at a time of rising German nationalism. "The cheapest form of pride is national pride; for the man affected therewith betrays a want of individual qualities of which he might be proud since he would not otherwise resort to that which he shares with so many millions." (p.276)

Given the tragic consequences that extreme nationalism lead to in Germany during the 20th century, it seems a safe bet that Schopenhaur will remain a strong philosophical presence in 21st Europe.