Philosophical Writings (German Library) (Paperback)

by Arthur Schopenhauer (Author), Wolfgang Schirmacher (Editor)

Editorial Reviews

Language Notes
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: German --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 328 pages
• Publisher: Continuum International Publishing Group (January 1, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0826407293
• ISBN-13: 978-0826407290
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #228,538 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best single volume collection of Schopenhauer in print, December 25, 2001

By	ixion75 - See all my reviews

Although it is getting harder to find, The German Library's Schopenhauer entry, volume 27, entitled "Philosophical Writings," has long been the best collection of Schopenhauer's works in one book. Here edited by Wolfgang Schirmacher and in translations by E.F.J. Payne (who produced the definitive translation of all of Schopenhauer's major works) are 300 pages worth of selections from Schopenhauer's canon. From his seminal tract _The World As Will and Representation_ to his later-life essay collection _Parerga and Paralipomena_, this book has it all.

The 16 chapters here correspond to chapters in his works, although there are no indications from where in Schopenhauer's oeuvre they are being pulled-- the collections's major flaw. However there is literally no aspect of Schopenhauer's major points that is not given a voice here. "On Thinking For Oneself" is a chapter out of the second volume of the Parerga; as is his essay "On Suicide" and "Additional Remarks on the Doctrine of the Suffering of the World." From the second volume of _The World as Will and Representation_ we get an essay "On the Fundamental View of Idealism" as well as "On the Affirmation of the Will-To-Live." "The Foundation of Ethics" is a lengthy section of _On the Basis of Morality_. Only 2 of the 16 sections feature abridgment of any kind: "Aphorisms on the Wisdom of Life" has long been available as a separate book, although it is part of the first volume of the Parega; and Schopenhauer's summary statement, the important fourth section of the first volume of _The World as Will and Representation_, is here in a 75 page chunk of the original 143 pages.

If there is a complaint to this book, it is that it does not give full expression to Schopenhauer's personality-- for example, his views on women. However this is not essential, and as stated this compilation does excellently in presenting the force and insight of Schopenhauer's thought in one set of covers. Schirmacher's introduction is lively and presents Schopenhauer as a still-important, still-relevant presence in the contemporary world-- easy to say of someone who forshadowed the advancements of Einstein, Freud and Darwin.

With statements on ethics, metaphysics, aesthetics, and politics, I would point anyone who wants Schopenhauer in 300 pages or less to make this purchase. As an avid reader of the man I honestly recommend Schopenhauer's larger works in their entirety; however for the reader prohibited by time or schedule, this is the best selection available, and can serve as an introductory text as well.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Dark Thoughts to Console 21st Souls, June 23, 2000

By	Eric H. Roth "English teacher/conversationali... (Venice Beach, CA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Philosophical Writings (German Library) (Hardcover)

Schirmacher's brilliant introduction alone justifies this fascinating collection of Germany's most popular philosopher today - and Schopenhauer wrote and breathed in the 19th century!

Schopenhaur, the philosopher who first brought Buddhist insights into mainstream European philosophy, remains a paradox. On one hand, he acknowledges that life is a disappointment and almost all is vanity. On the other hand, sensual pleasure provides some solace and a solid foundation for an ethics of compassion.

While I often had to reread several passages a few times to extract some clear understanding, this influential tome provides an excellent overview of a controversial philosopher whose ideas continue to inspire and confuse.

I found Schopenhaur's harsh denunciation of nationalism particularly interesting given the fact that he was writing at a time of rising German nationalism. "The cheapest form of pride is national pride; for the man affected therewith betrays a want of individual qualities of which he might be proud since he would not otherwise resort to that which he shares with so many millions." (p.276)

Given the tragic consequences that extreme nationalism lead to in Germany during the 20th century, it seems a safe bet that Schopenhaur will remain a strong philosophical presence in 21st Europe.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fine Selection, August 18, 2008

By	Alaric - See all my reviews

Concise, ideal introduction to Arthur Schopenhauer, it's only competition can be from Hollingdale's compilation with Penguin Books. Right for the price, even if it's only for review. 304 pgs. Translation from Payne's editions of Schopenhauer's writings.