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Schopenhauer's Philosophy

Schopenhauer’s philosophy centers on the idea that human desire is the core of existence, driving all suffering. He believed that our "will"—a blind, irrational force—underpins everything, causing us constant longing and dissatisfaction. Happiness is fleeting because satisfying one desire leads to new ones. To find peace, he suggested reducing desires through asceticism and art, which can momentarily free us from the relentless will. Ultimately, his philosophy emphasizes recognizing the suffering inherent in life, seeking compassion, and understanding that true fulfillment comes from inner resignation and acknowledgment of our shared human condition.