The World as Will and Representation, Volume I

by Arthur Schopenhauer
The World as Will and Representation, Volume I cover
Good Books rating 4.12
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  • ID: 5398
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-23
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
The Greatest Books · 2025-10-23
intriguing 4.00

The book posits that the world is driven by a continually dissatisfied will, seeking constant satisfaction. The division into four parts provides a structured approach to understanding Schopenhauer's philosophy.

The Greatest Books review emphasizes the central idea of the book: the world is driven by a continually dissatisfied will. They appreciate the structured approach, with the book divided into four parts that address different aspects of Schopenhauer's philosophy. The reviewer notes that this division helps in understanding the complex ideas presented. They suggest that the book offers a unique perspective on the nature of reality and human experience, making it a significant contribution to philosophical thought.

Quick quotes

    This philosophical work posits that the world is driven by a continually dissatisfied will, continually seeking satisfaction.

    The book is divided into four parts, with the first addressing the world as representation, the second detailing the world as will, the third discussing art and ethics, and the fourth exploring the metaphysics of the will.

    Schopenhauer's ideas have influenced thinkers like Nietzsche, Wagner, and even Freud, highlighting the enduring impact of his work.

Goodreads · Anonymous · 2025-10-23
brilliant 4.10

Schopenhauer's masterpiece is considered his greatest work, offering a comprehensive summation of his philosophical ideas. The prose is unmatched, providing both pleasure and intellectual challenge.

The Goodreads reviewer considers Schopenhauer's prose unmatched, offering a great pleasure to read despite its complexity. They highlight the book as Schopenhauer's greatest work, summing up his philosophical ideas in a comprehensive manner. The reviewer appreciates the depth and intellectual challenge the book presents, making it a significant contribution to philosophical literature. They suggest that readers should approach the book with an open mind and a willingness to engage with its profound ideas.

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    It is without question Schopenhauer's greatest work.

    Conceived and published before the philosopher was 30 and expanded 25 years later, it is the summation of a lifetime of thought.

    Schopenhauer's prose is unmatched; a great pleasure to read, so long as you can at least hang on by a fingernail to the main thrusts of this genius.

So Brief · 2025-02-17
profound 4.25

The work offers a profound exploration of reality and human experience, blending Eastern and Western philosophies. The book's depth and complexity make it a challenging but rewarding read.

So Brief's review highlights Schopenhauer's unique perspective on the nature of reality and human experience. They appreciate the blend of Eastern and Western philosophical influences, noting that the work is both challenging and rewarding. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of Schopenhauer's ideas in understanding the role of will in shaping our world. They suggest that while the book is dense, it offers valuable insights that can deepen one's philosophical understanding.

Quick quotes

    Schopenhauer's work focuses on the nature of reality, human experience, and the role of will in shaping our world.

    He was influenced by Eastern philosophies, which adds a unique dimension to his Western philosophical framework.

    The book is dense and challenging, but the insights are profound and rewarding for those who persist.

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