oter

The dual nature of human existence—will and intellect from "summary" of The World as Will and Presentation by Arthur Schopenhauer,David Carus,Richard E. Aquila

As we delve into the depths of human existence, we come to understand the intricate interplay between will and intellect. These two forces, though often perceived as separate entities, are inextricably linked in shaping our reality and experience of the world. The will, as Schopenhauer describes it, is the driving force behind our desires, emotions, and actions. It is the primal energy that propels us towards our goals and motivates our behaviors. The will operates on a subconscious level, dictating our instincts and impulses, often beyond the realm of our conscious awareness. On the other hand, the intellect acts as a counterbalance to the will, providing us with the capacity for reasoning, reflection, and self-awareness. Through the intellect, we are able to perceive the world around us, analyze information, and make decisions based on rational thought. It is through the intellect that we are able to gain insight into the nature of reality and our place within it. However, despite their distinct functions, the will and intellect are not always in harmony. In fact, Schopenhauer argues that the will often dominates the intellect, leading to irrational behaviors, conflict, and suffering. This imbalance between our primal desires and rational thought can result in inner turmoil and existential angst. To achieve a state of inner peace and fulfillment, Schopenhauer suggests that we must strive to align our will with our intellect. By cultivating self-awareness, mindfulness, and moral consciousness, we can transcend the limitations of our primal urges and achieve a higher state of enlightenment.
  1. The dual nature of human existence—will and intellect—represents the ongoing struggle between our primal instincts and higher cognitive functions. It is through this internal conflict that we are able to navigate the complexities of our existence and strive towards a more harmonious and purposeful life.
  2. Open in app
    The road to your goals is in your pocket! Download the Oter App to continue reading your Microbooks from anywhere, anytime.
Similar Posts
Gratitude leads to contentment
Gratitude leads to contentment
Gratitude is like a secret ingredient that can transform our experience of life. When we cultivate a sense of gratitude, we beg...
Willpower is the fuel that propels individuals towards their dreams and aspirations
Willpower is the fuel that propels individuals towards their dreams and aspirations
Willpower plays a crucial role in helping individuals to achieve their dreams and aspirations. It is the driving force that pro...
Gratitude attracts abundance into our lives
Gratitude attracts abundance into our lives
The law of gratitude is the natural principle that action and reaction are always equal. The spirit of gratitude brings the min...
It is a motivator for change and personal growth
It is a motivator for change and personal growth
This concept can act as a driving force for individuals to make changes in their lives and strive for personal development. Whe...
Take inspired action towards your goals and dreams to bring your ikigai to life
Take inspired action towards your goals and dreams to bring your ikigai to life
To bring your ikigai to life, it is essential to take inspired action towards your goals and dreams. This means actively pursui...
Even experts can be susceptible to cognitive illusions
Even experts can be susceptible to cognitive illusions
The idea that even experts can fall prey to cognitive illusions may sound surprising. After all, we tend to think of experts as...
Persistence
Persistence
Persistence is the ability to keep going despite obstacles and setbacks. It is the quality that enables individuals to push thr...
The fleeting nature of pleasure and happiness
The fleeting nature of pleasure and happiness
Schopenhauer delves into the idea that pleasure and happiness are transient in nature. He argues that our pursuit of pleasure i...
Inner peace radiates positive energy
Inner peace radiates positive energy
When we find inner peace, we tap into a source of positive energy that flows through us and radiates outwards. This positive en...
Find your ikigai by reflecting on what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for
Find your ikigai by reflecting on what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for
To find your ikigai, you must reflect on what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid fo...
oter

The World as Will and Presentation

Arthur Schopenhauer

Open in app
Now you can listen to your microbooks on-the-go. Download the Oter App on your mobile device and continue making progress towards your goals, no matter where you are.