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In fact, the balance wheel which maintains in motion the…

“In fact, the balance wheel which maintains in motion the watch of metaphysics that never runs down, is the clear knowledge that this world's non-existence is just as possible as its existence." ―from_The World as Will and Representation_. Translated from the German by E. F. J. Payne. In Two…” quote by Arthur Schopenhauer
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““In fact, the balance wheel which maintains in motion the watch of metaphysics that never runs down, is the clear knowledge that this world's non-existence is just as possible as its existence." ―from_The World as Will and Representation_. Translated from the German by E. F. J. Payne. In Two Volumes, Volume II, p. 171””

Arthur Schopenhauer

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Reality may be a construct; non-existence is as conceivable as existence, challenging certainty.

In simple terms: Existence and non-existence are equally possible.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about reality.

Themes

philosophy existence uncertainty

Mood

thoughtful speculative

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • personal worldview
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

metaphysics ontology perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you find comfort in uncertainty?
  • How does this view affect moral choices?
A Different Perspective

Such ideas can lead to nihilistic paralysis.

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