Schopenhauer

Question:
Interpret the following passage from Schopenhauer (this can even be read
as a diagnosis of our modern culture’s pursuit of materialistic happiness):
Optimism is at bottom the unmerited self-praise of the real originator of the
world, the will to live, which views itself complacently in its works. And
accordingly it is not only a false, but a pernicious doctrine. For it presents
life to us as a desirable condition, and the happiness of man as the end of it.
Starting from this, everyone then believes that he has the most just claim to
happiness and pleasure. And if, as is wont to happen, these do not fall to his
lot, then he believes that he is wronged, nay, that he loses the end of his
existence. But it is far more correct to regard work, privation, misery, and
suffering, crowned by death, as the end of our life.

I want you to interpret each of the above sentences. For each sentence I want one
brief paragraph interpreting in plain words what you think it is saying. Then at the
end of the paper sum up briefly what the whole passage is saying.

Instructions:
1. Make sure that the paper is double-spaced, and about one page in length.
2. Don’t use outside sources, use only the one provided (attached files or links)
3. Use your own words. Don’t use CHATGPT or plagiarize.

Check out the two very good videos, showing the wider context of Schopenhauer’s
philosophy; the paper topic (which the videos help to clarify)
Links:
1. https://youtu.be/ypOtX1kEo8U (Title: Introduction to Schopenhauer: Schopenhauer’s Ethics)

2. https://youtu.be/6R8NNLQbQNU (Title: 05 – Schopenhauer on Love – Philosophy: A Guide to Happiness)

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