The World as Will and Representation
"The World as Will and Representation" by Arthur Schopenhauer posits that the world is fundamentally driven by a blind, irrational force he calls "will," which manifests in all aspects of life. He argues that our perceptions and experiences are mere representations shaped by this underlying will, leading to suffering and desire. The work explores themes of aesthetics, ethics, and the possibility of transcending suffering through art and renunciation.
10 curated highlights from this book
Key Insights & Memorable Quotes
Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from The World as Will and Representation, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.
The world is my representation.
Will is the thing-in-itself.
Life is a constant striving.
Happiness consists in the absence of pain.
The more one knows, the more one suffers.
Compassion is the basis of morality.
The ultimate aim of all life is death.
We can do nothing but choose.