Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) built his philosophy step by step, starting with a central concept (the theory of the will), and adding layers of explanations. His physics, epistemology, logic and morality revolve around the theory of the will, and so do his views on the meaning of life. John Vespasian explains that, according to Schopenhauer, the will (“life force”) drives all living creatures to secure their survival and reproduction; at the same time, the will prompts them seek pleasure but doesn’t pay attention to the costs and risks involved. When it comes to the meaning of life, Schopenhauer agrees with Aristotle (384-322 BC) that happiness is the ultimate goal of humans; however, Schopenhauer’s definition of happiness is different from Aristotle’s. In the “Nicomachean Ethics,” Aristotle defined happiness as thriving or flourishing. Schopenhauer chooses a less ambitions definition. He talks about absence of suffering, peace of mind, contentment, and repeated pleasure. Eastern philosophies (Buddhism and Hinduism) contributed to Schopenhauer’s views on the meaning of life. They brought him to endorse mild asceticism as a defence against the chaotic pressure exerted by the will. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/schopenhauer-and-the-meaning-of-life/

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