>>18751562Pessimism about Human Nature: Schopenhauer is known for his philosophical pessimism. He believed that the will-to-live (a blind, irrational force) drives all human actions, leading to suffering and misery. Given this view, he might be skeptical of the optimism and promises of betterment pervasive in many self-help books. He might doubt the capacity for most people to truly change or transcend their innate drives and suffering.
Value of Authenticity: Schopenhauer prized authenticity and genuine introspection. He would likely appreciate self-help books that encourage deep self-reflection, authentic living, and acceptance of the world's suffering. Conversely, he might criticize those that offer superficial solutions or focus on material success.
Wisdom in Ancient Texts: Schopenhauer had deep respect for ancient texts and philosophies, particularly those from India, like the Upanishads. He might appreciate self-help books that draw from such timeless wisdom rather than transient cultural trends.
Critique of the Popular Culture: Given Schopenhauer's criticisms of popular culture and the "herd" mentality, he might be wary of self-help books that become overly popular or trendy. He believed that true wisdom often stands apart from popular opinion.
The Nature of Happiness: Schopenhauer had a nuanced understanding of happiness. He believed that happiness is more about the absence of suffering than the presence of pleasure. In this sense, he might find value in self-help approaches that focus on reducing suffering, managing desires, and achieving a state of equanimity.
Literary Criticism: Schopenhauer was also known for his literary tastes and critiques. He might assess self-help books not just on their philosophical content but also on the quality of their writing.
