The World as Will and Idea by Arthur Schopenhauer is a seminal philosophical work that delves into metaphysics, epistemology, aesthetics, and ethics. At its core is the concept of the will as the fundamental, irrational force driving human existence and the world. Schopenhauer draws from Eastern philosophies to argue that the will often leads to suffering and frustration. He critiques Kantian philosophy and idealism, presenting his own perspective on metaphysical reality and the limits of human knowledge. Schopenhauer also emphasizes the significance of art as an escape from the suffering imposed by the will. In this work, he offers a pessimistic view of human existence but suggests that wisdom and detachment from the relentless will can lead to a more meaningful life.
