What characterises the philosophy of the self developed by Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860)? Which are the differences between Schopenhauer’s ideas and those of other philosophers? John Vespasian explains that Schopenhauer outlined his philosophy in “The world as will and representation,” a book published in 1818. The book puts forward the “theory of the will” as explanation for the cosmos, society, and human nature. According to this theory, the will (“life force”) is driving all living creatures to ensure their own survival, reproduction, and to seek short-time pleasure. To a large extent, the concept of instincts in Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) corresponds to Schopenhauer’s theory of the will. In Freud’s books, instincts are also defined as unconscious and primordial forces driving animals and humans. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/schopenhauers-views-on-the-self/

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