Schopenhauer

A Very Short Introduction

By: Christopher Janaway

Narrated by: Kyle Munley

Schopenhauer is considered to be the most accessible of German philosophers. This book gives a succinct explanation of his metaphysical system, concentrating on the original aspects of his thought, which inspired many artists and thinkers including Nietzsche, Wagner, Freud, and Wittgenstein. Schopenhauer's central notion is that of the will-a blind, irrational force that he uses to interpret both the human mind and the whole of nature. Seeing human behavior as that of a natural organism governed by the will to life, Schopenhauer developed radical insights concerning the unconscious and sexuality which influenced both psychologists and philosophers

©1994, 2002 Christopher Janaway (P)2021 Tantor

Clear

I enjoyed the overview and anecdotes on the philosopher at hand. I am inspired to read more Schopenhauer after listening to this book.

am OK review

I'm not a philosopher and I can't judge how accurate is the review, however, I was expecting some insight, not just a summary and listing of famous people that have been interested in Schopenhauer. Maybe I had some preconceptions and the book is very good. Check it yourself.

Get familiar with the greats

These little “introductions” are a very enjoyable way to become familiar with the canonical philosophers before diving deeply into full works. The narrator has a full deep voice that is pleasurable to listen to but he does pronounce a few words like “Nietzsche” a bit oddly. Definitely recommend if you are trying to get a general understanding of Schopenhauer.