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Man's only hope lies in "final redemption from the misery…

“Man's only hope lies in "final redemption from the misery of volition and existence into the painlessness of non-being and non-willing." No mortal may quit the task of life, but each must do his part to hasten the time when in the major portion of the human race the activity of the unconscious…” quote by Karl Robert Eduard von Hartmann
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““Man's only hope lies in "final redemption from the misery of volition and existence into the painlessness of non-being and non-willing." No mortal may quit the task of life, but each must do his part to hasten the time when in the major portion of the human race the activity of the unconscious shall be ruled by intelligence, and this stage reached, in the simultaneous action of many persons volition will resolve upon its own non-continuance, and thus idea and will be once more reunited in the Absolute.””

Karl Robert Eduard von Hartmann

About This Quote

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

The passage envisions humanity evolving toward a state where conscious will dissolves into a peaceful, non‑acting existence.

In simple terms: Humanity may one day stop willing and be at peace.

Key Takeaway

Consider how reducing egoic striving may lead to collective tranquility.

Themes

philosophy existential future collective consciousness non‑being

Mood

contemplative hopeful serious

Type

being:1 death:1 hope:1 human race:1 life:1 unconsciousness:1 willing:1 volition existence:1 persons volition:1 willing mortal:1 existence painless:1 misery volition:1

When to use this quote

  • ethical debates
  • spiritual practice
  • academic discussion
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

unconscious volition non‑continuance intelligence absolute

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value personal agency over collective peace?
  • What might be lost if volition ends?
A Different Perspective

The idea assumes a uniform desire for non‑being, ignoring individual values.

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