Rotterdam philosophy reading group: Schopenhauer: the World a Hell

Dive into the provocative world of Arthur Schopenhauer (1788–1860), one of philosophy’s most radical pessimists—and yet, strangely liberating thinkers. Behind the world as we know it, Schopenhauer argues, lurks the relentless force of the Will—not our rational, individual will, but a blind, insatiable cosmic drive. According to him, humanity is trapped in endless striving and suffering, with only one escape: a form of asceticism inspired by Eastern philosophy.

Schopenhauer’s bold fusion of Western and Eastern thought makes his work timeless, challenging, and deeply rewarding. This book—a curated selection of his key writings—became an instant classic when first published in Dutch in 1980. Now, it’s the perfect centerpiece for deep discussion.

Join our reading group as we unpack his insights on desire, suffering, and the possibility of transcendence. Whether you’re new to philosophy or a seasoned thinker, you’ll find his work startlingly relevant.
Let’s read, reflect, and debate together

The events are free, but you can pay as you please, which would be much appreciated. I donate 10% of the revenue, as I do with all of my income, to effective charities that are recommended by the Effective Altruism Movement (see: https://www.effectivealtruism.org/).

You can send me a one-time donation on:
https://www.paypal.me/FBIJoeri

Or you can support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/filosofischbureauvoorinzichtsvergaring

For those that would like to see me speak about other philosophy stuff, see:

https://www.youtube.com/user/1986Joeri

For those that like to complement or replace their reading with audio-visual material, see the below links. When one does not prepare or is unable to, attendance is of course not prohibited.