Question

Explain how Schopenhauer depicts the human condition as being driven by the twin poles of need and boredom (and provide some examples of your own to illustrate what he means). Is Schopenhauer right to claim that life amounts to suffering? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Hello!

When schopenhauer mentions twin poles what he exactly means is struggle between need and want ; for instance you needing basic life necessities versus you wanting to be rich and the journey from need to want is the suffering.

Now, Need as mentioned before is basic but boredom is seen in groups or Individuals who are quiet fortunate and have everything they want , I.e., they don't have to worry between working hard and trying to sustain ,they just live and doesn't really know or have the drive to acquire more as someone who is not that privileged has to work , has to give up on so many things but desires the riches that could get him out of his current situation, he always has a goal and is driven , unlike the wealthy man who has everything and because of this he is bored and doesn't have to do actions that cause him to be busy .

well, life doesn't necessarily have to be suffering, it depends on what an individual wants in his life and what are his priorities , if an individual focuses only on material gains ,chances are he could suffer .

THANKYOU,HOPE THIS HELPS!