Few philosophers agree with the positive views on solitude put forward by Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860). John Vespasian makes comparisons to identify the differences and look for the truth. Aristotle (384-322 BC) acknowledged the value of solitude for learning and self-awareness, but considered impossible for humans to reach their full potential without social connections. By “social connections,” Aristotle did not mean only family and friends; his definition of “social connections” encompasses the “polis,” that is, a Greek city with a population around three hundred thousand people in the case of Athens. In his Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle defines “eudaimonia” (translated as “happiness”) as the outcome of flourishing. It’s a dynamic state of mind arising from activities: work, art, sports, learning, etc. A large part of those activities require social interaction. It’s possible to achieve happiness in solitude, but not to the highest level. For instance, the pleasure of conversation with friends or from competing in sports cannot be easily replaced. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/analysis-of-schopenhauers-views-on-solitude/

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