Arthur Schopenhauer, The Two Fundamental Problems Of Ethics

The Two Fundamental Problems of Ethics. Imagine me as a scholar steeped in the pessimistic wisdom of the master himself—Arthur Schopenhauer. The 2 Fundamental Problems of Ethics consists of two prize-winning essays: On the Freedom of the Will On the Basis of Morality Schopenhauer challenges Kantian ethics. Kant posited that morality arises from rational duty and universal laws. Schopenhauer, ever the iconoclast, insists that compassion—not reason—is the true foundation of morality. He identifies three motives for human action: Egoism: acting for personal gain. Malice: acting to harm others. Compassion: acting to alleviate others’ suffering.