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Will Books
Best books
Arthur Schopenhauer
The World as Will and Idea (Vol. 1 of 3)
"The World as Will and Idea (Vol. 1 of 3)" by Arthur Schopenhauer is a philosophical work first published in 1818. Building on Kant's transcendental idealism, Schopenhauer argues that the world exists as "representation" in our minds, while its inner essence is a blind, unconscious will—the root of all suffering. Through four books, he explores how aesthetic experience offers temporary escape, though true redemption requires complete denial of the will to life. This single thought, examined from multiple perspectives, became his life's work.
Arthur Schopenhauer
On the Fourfold Root of the Principle of Sufficient Reason, and On the Will in Nature: Two Essays (revised edition)
"On the Fourfold Root of the Principle of Sufficient Reason and On the Will in Nature" by Arthur Schopenhauer is a philosophical treatise likely written in the early 19th century. The work explores the foundational concept of the Principle of Sufficient Reason, which posits that nothing happens without a reason for why it is so, and elaborates on how this principle manifests in various realms of knowledge. Schopenhauer emphasizes a systematic approach to philosophy and lays the groundwork for understanding his broader philosophical system. The opening of the treatise introduces the importance of the Principle of Sufficient Reason, explaining its relevance to the foundations of knowledge and science. Schopenhauer discusses the methodological framework established by philosophers like Plato and Kant, stressing the need for clarity in defining principles of reasoning. He aims to separate the different applications of the principle and critiques past interpretations while suggesting a more nuanced understanding. This initial exposition sets the stage for a deeper investigation into how the principle permeates various branches of inquiry, underscoring its significance in grasping deeper philosophical truths.
Arthur Schopenhauer
The World as Will and Idea (Vol. 3 of 3)
"The World as Will and Idea (Vol. 3 of 3)" by Arthur Schopenhauer is a philosophical work first published in 1818. Building on Kantian idealism, Schopenhauer argues that the world exists as representation dependent on a perceiving mind, while its inner essence is a blind, unconscious will—the source of all suffering. Through four books, he explores epistemology, ontology, aesthetics, and ethics, proposing that aesthetic experience offers brief escape and only ascetic negation of will brings true redemption.
Arthur Schopenhauer
The World as Will and Idea (Vol. 2 of 3)
"The World as Will and Idea (Vol. 2 of 3)" by Arthur Schopenhauer is a philosophical treatise written in the early 19th century. This volume continues Schopenhauer's exploration of metaphysics, primarily focusing on a critique of Immanuel Kant's philosophy and further detailing his own theories regarding perception and knowledge. The text delves into complex topics related to the nature of reality, consciousness, and the fundamental interplay between human will and experience. At the start of this volume, Schopenhauer outlines his intention to critique Kantian philosophy, recognizing Kant's significant contributions while also challenging various aspects he deems erroneous. He emphasizes the distinction between phenomena (things as we perceive them) and noumena (things in themselves), acknowledging Kant's framing of this debate but seeking to clarify and refine it further. Schopenhauer argues that true knowledge transcends mere abstraction and calls for a deeper understanding of the relationship between the perceiver and the perceived, setting the stage for his own philosophical assertions.
Benedetto Croce
The Philosophy of the Practical: Economic and Ethic
"The Philosophy of the Practical: Economic and Ethic" by Benedetto Croce is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. This book explores the interrelationship and distinctions between practical activities and theoretical understanding, examining how both economic and ethical dimensions shape human actions. Croce delves into the nature of will and knowledge, arguing that true understanding transcends mere psychological classification and involves a deeper philosophical inquiry. At the start of the work, Croce introduces the concept of practical activity as a unique form of spiritual expression, distinct from both theoretical thought and emotional feeling. He critiques the psychological methods that attempt to categorize human activities exclusively into practical or theoretical realms, asserting that all forms intertwine within the unified spirit of humanity. The beginning sets up a foundation for a more profound exploration of how economic and ethical actions are informed by theoretical frameworks while emphasizing the autonomy of practical thought as a critical component of human existence.
Orison Swett Marden
An Iron Will
"An Iron Will" by Orison Swett Marden and Abner Bayley is a motivational self-help book written in the early 20th century. This work centers around the idea of willpower as an essential component of success and personal achievement. The book encourages readers to cultivate and strengthen their will to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals in life. In "An Iron Will," Marden emphasizes the concept of willpower through various anecdotes and examples from history and everyday life. He discusses the importance of mental discipline, perseverance, and determination—qualities that he believes can lead to success in any endeavor. Throughout the chapters, he illustrates his points with stories of notable figures, such as Napoleon, Grant, and historical champions, demonstrating how their strong wills enabled them to triumph against significant challenges. Marden advocates for a proactive mindset, encouraging individuals to believe in their capabilities and to persist through hardships to achieve their aspirations. Through this inspiring message, the book serves as a guide for anyone looking to harness their inner strength and enhance their willpower.
Russell H. Conwell
What you can do with your will power
"What You Can Do With Your Will Power" by Russell H. Conwell is a motivational publication written in the early 20th century. The book emphasizes the power of determination, akin to willpower, as a driving force behind personal and professional success. Conwell shares numerous anecdotes and examples to inspire readers—particularly young men and women—to recognize their potential and take proactive steps to achieve their ambitions. In this work, Conwell outlines the idea that success is attainable through strong will and determination, regardless of one's starting point in life. He illustrates this through stories of individuals who overcame significant obstacles to achieve their dreams, portraying willpower as an essential ingredient in navigating life's challenges. Through practical advice and encouragement, he emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals, making decisions, and harnessing one's inner strength to carve out a path to success. The overarching message is one of empowerment, encouraging readers to take control of their destinies and understand that their future is shaped by their choices and commitment.
Marguerite Duportal
De la volonté
"De la volonté" by Marguerite Duportal is a philosophical treatise written in the late 19th century. The work explores the concept of will, arguing against the common perception that some individuals lack volition. The author seeks to affirm that every person possesses the same intrinsic capacity for will, asserting that the challenges associated with exerting will are often misunderstood. The opening of "De la volonté" dedicates the text to those who believe they lack willpower or possess only a weak form of it. Duportal asserts that this belief is a profound error, emphasizing that every individual has the potential for strong will analogous to that of great historical figures, like Napoleon. She critiques prevalent notions of willfulness and weakness, proposing that perceived deficiencies arise not from a lack of will but from misunderstandings about the nature and exercise of will itself. This exploration leads to a philosophical inquiry into the mechanisms of will, its dependencies, and the moral implications of exercising it.
James J. (James Joseph) Walsh
Health Through Will Power
"Health Through Will Power" by James J. Walsh is a psychological health guide written in the early 20th century. This work emphasizes the crucial role of willpower in maintaining health and recovering from disease, challenging the prevailing focus on intellect alone. It posits that human will not only influences mental resilience but also has a significant impact on physical vitality and longevity. The opening of the book sets the stage by discussing the transformative effects of war on individuals, suggesting that extreme experiences can unveil hidden strengths of willpower. Walsh uses compelling anecdotes to illustrate that the will to live can dramatically impact recovery from illness, arguing that willpower is often the deciding factor in a patient’s ability to heal. He also critiques modern society's comforts as detrimental to willpower, advocating for a life that actively exercises the will to foster both resilience and healthier living. This initial exploration establishes the foundation for the deeper discussions on the will's role in various aspects of health that follow in the subsequent chapters.
Asa Mahan
Doctrine of the Will
"Doctrine of the Will" by Asa Mahan is a theological and philosophical treatise written in the mid-19th century. The work delves into the nature of human will, exploring the fundamental concepts of liberty and necessity while engaging with various philosophical schools of thought. Mahan aims to articulate a doctrine that aligns with both psychological understanding and biblical teachings regarding moral capability and obligation. The opening of the treatise begins with a dedicatory preface, where Mahan emphasizes the importance of understanding the doctrine of the will as it serves as a central theme in both mental philosophy and theology. He outlines the methodology he intends to adopt, advocating for a careful psychological inquiry into the nature of the will, free from the biases of preconceived theological systems. Mahan asserts that the interrelationship between human volition, divine governance, and moral responsibility is critical for comprehending one's character and duties as a moral agent. He argues for a distinct understanding of liberty versus necessity, setting the stage for the detailed examinations and arguments that follow in the subsequent chapters.
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