Key Points of Schopenhauer's On the Basis of Morality:
2Arthur Schopenhauer's essay "On the Basis of Morality" (1839) presents his exploration of ethics and the foundation for moral behavior. In it, Schopenhauer critiques other moral philosophies and proposes his own theory centered on compassion (Mitleid) as the basis of morality.
Key Points of Schopenhauer's On the Basis of Morality:
Critique of Kantian Ethics:
Schopenhauer critiques Immanuel Kant's ethical framework, particularly the categorical imperative.
He argues that Kant's morality is overly abstract and lacks a genuine motivational force. It relies on rational constructs rather than lived human experience.
Rejection of Egoism:
Schopenhauer strongly opposes ethical egoism and theories that base morality on self-interest, such as utilitarianism and Hobbesian thought.
Compassion as the Basis of Morality:
Schopenhauer identifies compassion as the true foundation of moral behavior.
He argues that when individuals act morally, they do so out of a direct, empathetic recognition of the suffering of others.
Three Types of Behavior:
Egoism: Acts motivated by self-interest.
Malice: Acts that deliberately harm others.
Compassion: Acts motivated by a recognition of shared suffering.
Schopenhauer holds that only compassion leads to genuinely moral actions.
Metaphysical Underpinning:
Drawing on his larger philosophical system in The World as Will and Representation, Schopenhauer sees the individual as part of a universal Will.
Compassion arises from recognizing oneself in othersโan intuitive grasp of the interconnectedness of all beings.
Critique of Religious Ethics:
Schopenhauer critiques religious morality, especially the Christian focus on divine commandments.
He argues that moral behavior should not depend on external rewards (heaven) or punishments (hell).
Practical Implications:
Schopenhauer's ethics emphasize kindness, nonviolence, and a recognition of universal suffering.
He sees asceticism and the renunciation of desires as an extension of compassionate morality.
Influence of Eastern Thought:
Schopenhauer was deeply influenced by Eastern philosophies, especially Hinduism and Buddhism, which emphasize the interconnectedness of life and the cessation of suffering.
Moral Worth:
Actions have moral worth only when they are performed out of compassion, not self-interest or duty.
Conclusion of the Essay:
Schopenhauer concludes that compassion is not only the basis for morality but also the key to reducing human suffering.
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