The Essential Schopenhauer

“Schopenhauer’s beautiful, exceptionally dark philosophy liberates us from the intolerable burden placed upon us by our contemporary optimism. The Essential Schopenhauer is a book to turn to when all others have failed.” — Alain de Botton, bestselling author of The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life“Unquestionably one of the most profound and penetrating intellects.” — New York Times“A great philosopher” — The Guardian“Unquestionably one of the most profound and penetrating intellects.” — New York Times“A great philosopher” — The Guardian“Schopenhauer’s philosophy has had a special attraction for those who wonder about life’s meaning, along with those engaged in music, literature, and the visual arts.” — Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy“Schopenhauer’s philosophy has had a special attraction for those who wonder about life’s meaning, along with those engaged in music, literature, and the visual arts.” — Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy“Schopenhauer’s beautiful, exceptionally dark philosophy liberates us from the intolerable burden placed upon us by our contemporary optimism. The Essential Schopenhauer is a book to turn to when all others have failed.” — Alain de Botton, bestselling author of The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life

German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer (1788 - 1860) is the author of The World as Will and Representation.

Wolfgang Schirmacher is Director of the European Graduate School and President of the International Schopenhauer Society. He lives in New York City.