What is typically involved in the pessimistic description of the human condition is not so much the painful nature of man’s environment, but rather the limitations in his own nature. Explain how according to Schopenhauer pain/suffering are a necessary part of human nature. Why is it according to Schopenhauer that to exist in time is to suffer? How did Schopenhauer conceive of a possibility of a release from pain and suffering? Explain how the possibility of release, offered by Schopenhauer, would involve a radical transformation of human nature. If such a transformation were possible, do you think it would ultimately be desirable?
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