Schopenhauer’s Compassion as Morality’s Root

Posted on: 2025-03-30 13:00:00

'Compassion as Morality’s Root' (On the Basis of Morality), penned by Arthur Schopenhauer in 1840, challenges traditional ethics with a bold claim: compassion, not duty or reason, is morality’s core. As a Polish-German thinker, I’m drawn to its depth—here’s why it matters in 2025.

The Core Idea

Schopenhauer rejects Kant’s duty-based ethics. He argues morality stems from feeling another’s suffering as your own—compassion. It’s not abstract rules but an instinctive ‘ouch’ when others hurt. In Bangkok, where community thrives, this resonates.

Compassion vs. Ego

He splits actions into three motives: egoism (self-interest), malice (harming others), and compassion (helping without gain). Only compassion’s moral—it’s selfless. I see this in my ventures: Cleanesty isn’t just profit; it’s easing lives.

Why It’s Radical

Most ethics lean on reason or divine command. Schopenhauer’s secular—compassion’s innate, not taught. My atheist streak loves this: no gods, just human wiring. It’s raw, unpolished, and real.

Applying It

In debates or business, ask: ‘Is this compassionate?’ It cuts through bullshit. I’ve dropped beef (10 kg lost) partly from this—less harm, more empathy. It’s not preachy; it’s practical.

Critique

It’s narrow—compassion alone can’t solve complex ethics (e.g., justice). Yet, in a tech-driven 2025, it’s a gut-check against cold efficiency. Schopenhauer’s not perfect, but he’s profound.

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