There is substantial overlapping between the philosophies of Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) and Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900). The main reason for their similarities is that both men were dissatisfied with the Enlightenment ideas (from Kant and other thinkers) that dominated European universities. Schopenhauer and Nietzsche were not the only ones to feel discontented, but they expressed their rebellion in similar ways and employed similar terminology (I am referring to the theory of the will). The works of Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) had dominated the philosophical scene for decades when Arthur Schopenhauer and Friedrich Nietzsche began to verbalize their discontent. While mainstream philosophers continued to endorse Kant’s and Hegel’s versions of idealism, Schopenhauer and Nietzsche were growing sceptical towards “pure reason” and the “absolute spirit.” Schopenhauer had been initially a disciple of Kant, but had transformed Kant’s philosophy by incorporating the theory of the will. Schopenhauer had argued that “the Will” is the eternal and overwhelming force driving the cosmos. Nietzsche had rejected Kantian transcendentalism (such as the existence of categorical imperatives). Instead, he viewed the will to power as the key driver of human action. Nietzsche built his whole philosophy on the will to power, and how it can help human beings get the best out of life. In contrast to Kant’s and Hegel’s idealism (abstract ideals that are allegedly common to all persons), Schopenhauer cared much more for individual experience. The goal of his works is to help readers reduce suffering and increase happiness. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/reasons-for-the-similarities-and-differences-between-schopenhauer-and-nietzsche/

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