Schopenhauer and India. A rereading by The World as Will and Representation

Abstract

 Our study is structured around three intrinsically intertwined hypotheses, which we will try to confirm throughout it: first, we argue that in relation to the world as representation (Vorstellung ) and as will (Wille ), Schopenhauer relies almost exclusively on Vedānta, while in his references to “the denial of the will” (die Verneigung des Willens zum Leben ) there is an undeniable allusion to Buddhism. Second, we argue that Schopenhauer’s philosophy, unlike Hegel’s system, coincides almost entirely with romantic speculations. And finally, that despite an indisputable fascination for India and underlining its fundamental coincidences with Hindu thought, Schopenhauer’s philosophy is inscribed in the European tradition and in the Orientalist discourse.