Philosophy often serves as a guiding path for those seeking to live a more meaningful life, yet some concepts within it can be challenging to fully grasp. One such concept is asceticism, which plays a critical role in the philosophy of Arthur Schopenhauer. Understanding this idea deeply can transform the way we apply philosophy to enrich our lives. This article will explore Schopenhauer’s philosophy, examine the concept of asceticism, and discuss its importance in the philosophical quest for a more meaningful existence.
Key features of Schopenhauer’s philosophy
Arthur Schopenhauer’s philosophy is centered around the concept of “will,” which he considers the fundamental force behind all existence. According to Schopenhauer, the world we perceive is a representation, shaped by our minds and senses, but beneath this lies the true reality — the blind, ceaselessly striving “will to live.” This primal will drives all beings to survive, reproduce, and continually seek satisfaction, though true fulfillment remains elusive. For Schopenhauer, this struggle leads to suffering, as desires are never fully satisfied, and life oscillates between striving and dissatisfaction.
Schopenhauer also drew heavily on Eastern philosophies like Buddhism, suggesting that finding peace requires renouncing the will. By detaching from desires and cultivating a life of aesthetic appreciation (such as through art and music) or practising compassion toward others, one could achieve a form of temporary relief from suffering. He saw music, in particular, as a direct expression of the universal will, offering unique insights into the essence of life.
Though often viewed as pessimistic, Schopenhauer’s philosophy invites individuals to reflect on the nature of human motivation and suffering. His ideas remain influential, inspiring existentialist thought, psychology, and art. By focusing on the will and the struggle inherent in existence, Schopenhauer provides a profound framework for understanding both the challenges and transcendence of human life.
What is asceticism?
Arthur Schopenhauer considered asceticism a crucial element in overcoming the suffering inherent to human existence. According to his philosophy, life is governed by the “will to live,” an irrational and endless striving that leads to pain and dissatisfaction. Schopenhauer believed that by denying these desires and rejecting worldly pleasures, individuals could weaken the “will to live” and detach themselves from the perpetual cycle of suffering.
For Schopenhauer, asceticism involved a deliberate renunciation of personal wants and an acceptance of life’s inherent hardships. This self-denial, he argued, allowed individuals to rise above their egocentric tendencies and move toward a state of inner peace. By suppressing the desires that drive us, one could achieve a kind of liberation from the constant unrest caused by the will.
Though challenging, Schopenhauer saw this practice as a direct path to spiritual transcendence. He viewed it as a way to escape the dominance of the will and to reach a higher level of existence detached from the turmoil of everyday life. For Schopenhauer, asceticism was not about improving the human condition but about understanding and relinquishing the forces that bind us to endless suffering.
This example helps to demonstrate this philosophical perspective. A clear scenario of Schopenhauer’s view about asceticism can be seen in the life of a person who renounces worldly pleasures to achieve a sense of inner peace. For instance, a monk might give up material possessions, dedicate themselves to meditation, and live a life of simplicity in a small, remote monastery. They consciously choose to avoid indulgence in sensory pleasures, wealth, and social validation, focusing instead on developing detachment and self-discipline. Though their lifestyle may seem harsh, it reflects a deliberate effort to find meaning beyond physical and emotional desires, seeking a tranquil existence that rises above fleeting satisfactions. This approach, deeply rooted in ascetic principles, showcases a way to manage suffering by refusing to be controlled by the endless cravings and demands of human will, instead striving for a higher, more spiritual goal.
Challenges to Schopenhauer’s view about asceticism
Some philosophers reject Schopenhauer’s view on asceticism for a variety of reasons, often focusing on its implications and practicality. One primary objection is that asceticism advocates the denial of desires and pleasures, which some argue is an unrealistic and overly rigid approach to life. Critics contend that human beings are naturally inclined to seek happiness, fulfillment, and meaningful experiences, and asceticism appears to deny the value of these natural pursuits. This leads to concerns that such a philosophy is at odds with the reality of human nature.
Another objection comes from the view that asceticism fails to provide a positive or constructive framework for living. By focusing on renunciation and avoiding desires, critics argue that it offers little guidance on how to create or engage with meaningful relationships, community, or personal achievements. For many philosophers, these aspects of life are seen as essential to human well-being and flourishing. Without them, asceticism can seem like a philosophy of withdrawal rather than one that contributes to personal growth or societal improvement.
Some philosophers also take issue with asceticism’s pessimistic outlook. They argue that emphasizing the denial of desires paints a bleak picture of existence, ignoring the potential for joy, beauty, and creativity in life. Where Schopenhauer sees suffering as a central part of existence, critics of asceticism highlight the opportunities for overcoming suffering through connection, innovation, and shared human progress. For these thinkers, rejecting desires entirely overlooks the possibility that desires, when balanced, can lead to positive outcomes.
Lastly, there is a practical critique of asceticism as being too extreme and unsustainable for most people. Adopting a lifestyle that centers on the rejection of desires may create isolation or dissatisfaction, as it denies many of the pleasures and connections that human beings naturally seek. Philosophers who value moderation suggest that rather than completely renouncing desires, individuals can strive to manage or temper them in ways that lead to a balanced and fulfilling life. This perspective sees asceticism as disproportionate and unworkable for most individuals and societies.
Why asceticism is important to Schopenhauer’s philosophy
Understanding the concept of asceticism is essential for grasping the core elements of Schopenhauer’s philosophy.
- Encourages reflection on human desire
Asceticism, as a concept, centers on the idea of self-discipline and the renunciation of worldly pleasures. One of its key roles in understanding Schopenhauer’s philosophy is that it invites a deeper look into the nature of human desire itself. Ascetic practices often involve giving up material possessions or sensory indulgences, which can lead to a clearer perspective on how desires dominate human behavior. This detachment helps isolate the root of dissatisfaction, serving as a prism through which to view broader philosophical ideas about the nature of fulfillment and suffering. By contemplating asceticism, individuals are encouraged to question whether the endless pursuit of desires truly leads to happiness or if it perpetuates a cycle of craving. This theme sits at the heart of Schopenhauer’s broader ideas.
- Highlights the struggle between the individual and the will
Asceticism also underscores the internal conflict faced by individuals when confronting their impulses and needs. It reflects the struggle between personal discipline and the innate urge for gratification. By practicing asceticism, an individual effectively opposes these impulses, which mirrors a larger philosophical question about humanity’s relationship to the “will.” The self-restraint involved illustrates an attempt to transcend this internal force, providing valuable insight into the philosophical exploration of control, resistance, and self-awareness. This idea serves as a lens through which to view existential challenges, and understanding it aids in grappling with Schopenhauer’s themes without necessarily subscribing to his conclusions.
- Explores the relationship between suffering and renunciation
The practice of asceticism often involves enduring hardship or discomfort as a means to achieve higher understanding or spiritual growth. It reflects the idea that letting go of worldly attachments reduces suffering, a central concept in many philosophies and religions. Contemplating asceticism prompts a closer examination of how renunciation can potentially lead to a deeper sense of peace or detachment from the pains of existence. This principle aligns with questions about the human condition and our capacity to find relief from life’s hardships. Through asceticism, an individual might approach the understanding that minimizing attachments could pave the way for a more liberated state of mind.
Contrasting Schopenhauer’s philosophy with Epicurus
Arthur Schopenhauer’s view of asceticism highlights a sharp contrast to the philosophy of Epicurus. Schopenhauer regarded life as fundamentally driven by an insatiable “will to live,” leading to endless suffering and dissatisfaction. To counter this, he believed in the value of asceticism, advocating for self-denial and renunciation of desires as a way to mitigate suffering and achieve a more profound peace. For Schopenhauer, asceticism reflects a withdrawal from the world of material wants and pleasures, a path he viewed as essential for overcoming the suffering inherent in existence.
Epicurus, on the other hand, approached life through the lens of achieving happiness by minimizing pain and maximizing simple pleasures. Central to his philosophy was the idea that a pleasurable life could be attained through moderation, friendship, and freedom from fear, particularly the fear of death. Epicurus promoted the pursuit of modest desires rather than complete renunciation, emphasizing alignment with natural and essential needs as the path to a tranquil life.
Thus, while Schopenhauer saw the denial of all desires as key to reducing suffering, Epicurus advocated for a balanced enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures. Schopenhauer’s asceticism positions life as something to be transcended, whereas Epicurus encouraged a harmonious relationship with life’s natural limits. These differing stances underscore a fundamental divide in their philosophies—one focused on detachment and the other on moderation.
Asceticism, Schopenhauer’s philosophy and the meaning of life
Reflecting on Schopenhauer’s view about asceticism, regardless of whether one agrees with it or not, invites us to examine how we approach living a meaningful life. Schopenhauer’s emphasis on renouncing worldly desires can serve as a mirror, challenging us to think critically about the role of material possessions and pursuit of pleasure in our lives. While many may feel that asceticism is too extreme or detached from everyday reality, the act of reflecting on such ideas helps us to pause and question what truly brings us fulfillment, versus what simply distracts us.
Considering these ideas can foster self-awareness, revealing whether we are driven by short-term satisfaction or by deeper values that contribute to lasting meaning. For instance, reflecting on ascetic notions makes it easier to recognize that overindulgence often leads to fleeting happiness, leaving us to seek even more without addressing the underlying desire for purpose. This reflection nudges us to think about balance — perhaps the key isn’t extreme renunciation, but intentional moderation. By considering these questions, we start to better define what “enough” looks like in our lives and how we can prioritize well-being over endless striving.
Additionally, Schopenhauer’s philosophy encourages us to consider how detachment, in the right context, might contribute to resilience and inner peace. Even if we are not prepared to fully adopt an ascetic life, the idea of shifting focus from external circumstances to internal growth can motivate us to ground ourselves in things like relationships, creativity, or altruism. These sources of meaning often outlast material gains, which have a tendency to fade with time.
Reflecting on these ideas connects directly to how we live day-to-day, reminding us to live deliberately and in alignment with our values. It inspires us to think about what makes life fulfilling beyond surface-level distractions. Whether we agree with Schopenhauer or not, engaging with his philosophy encourages a more thoughtful, intentional approach to life that can ultimately lead to greater clarity and purpose.
Further reading
Barua, A. (2015). Schopenhauer and Indian philosophy: A dialogue between India and Germany. Lexington Books.
Cartwright, D. E. (2005). Schopenhauer: A biography. Cambridge University Press.
Gardiner, P. (1963). Schopenhauer. Penguin Books.
Hamlyn, D. W. (1980). Schopenhauer. Routledge.
Janaway, C. (1999). The Cambridge companion to Schopenhauer. Cambridge University Press.
Magee, B. (1997). The philosophy of Schopenhauer. Oxford University Press.
Schopenhauer, A. (1969). The world as will and representation (E. F. J. Payne, Trans.). Dover Publications. (Original work published 1818)
Wicks, R. (2008). Schopenhauer’s “The world as will and representation”: A reader’s guide. Bloomsbury.
Young, J. (2005). Schopenhauer. Routledge.