Existence Quote by Arthur Schopenhauer
““What is more, in fact, we very soon look upon the world as something whose non-existence is not only conceivable, but even preferable to its existence. Therefore our astonishment at it easily passes into a brooding over that *fatality* which could nevertheless bring about its existence, and by virtue of which such an immense force as is demanded for the production and maintenance of such a world could be directed so much against its own interest and advantage." ―from_The World as Will and Representation_. Translated from the German by E. F. J. Payne. In Two Volumes, Volume II, p. 171””
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: The World as Will and Representation, 1818
Existence may be undesirable; the force that creates the world could be directed against its own benefit, leading to fatalism.
In simple terms: World existence may be harmful; its creation may be self‑defeating.
Key Takeaway
Question the value of existence.
Themes
existentialism
fatalism
will
metaphysics
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal existential crisis
- creative work
- political theory
Key Concepts
philosophy
ontology
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to find meaning despite fatality?
- How does this view affect moral responsibility?
A Different Perspective
Such pessimism can hinder constructive action.
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![“[Materialism] seeks the primary and most simple state of matter, and then tries to develop all the others from it; ascending from mere mechanism, to chemism, to polarity, to the vegetable and to the animal kingdom. And if we suppose this to have been done, the last link in the chain would be…” quote by Arthur Schopenhauer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/88c/arthur-schopenhauer-226_animal-kingdom_materialism-seeks-the-primary-and-most-s_50402.jpg)
