Schopenhauer’s beliefs about human action are vividly depicted in this collection of his work, Essays and Aphorisms (Penguin Classics). His view represents that it is the will of the mind and not reason that develops into human action, while the wish for physical existence fuels the desire to perform actions. Taking his philosophies as seen in his work, Parerga and Paralipomena, the essays are related to politics, women, religion, suicide and ethics. These theme are mainly constituted in this work of Schopenhauer and encapsulate his theory of a Godless world.

His work is a representation of a world where art and culture are the primary forces and each person is shown to be free from the bonds of religion. His view is that a struggle is underway, wherein humanity is trying to find a way out of the struggle between good and evil. Schopenhauer’s philosophy has had a great impact on many future philosophers such as Nietzsche and Wittgenstein. He believed that culture, art, morality and awareness of the world are the only way to preserve and protect.

Parerga and Paralipomena itself has been divided into two parts and the study of this work is considered supplementary to understanding the philosophy of Schopenhauer’s thoughts and views. Essays and Aphorisms (Penguin Classics) was written by Arthur Schopenhauer and translated by R.J. Hollingdale. This reissue edition was published by Penguin UK in 1973 and is available in paperback.

Key Features:

• R.J. Hollingdale’s introduction to the text explains the theory of the will and the metaphysical background of Schopenhauer’s work.