#65- Schopenhauer’s Metaphysics of Love
This week, Scott and Karl discuss Schopenhauer’s Metaphysics of Love.
Among 19th-century philosophers, Arthur Schopenhauer was one of the first to contend that at its core, the universe is not a rational place. His view of love is no different— earnest but slightly unromantic.
Scott sums up Schopenhauer’s theory by saying, “Love is an experience you have that entices you to select a mate that would make up your genetic shortcomings and this force that acts on you… is the will to live from your unborn child.”
Karl adds, “It’s an illusion of choice, but in fact, you’re doing the species’ bidding.”
The truth is, we all care about the things we find attractive, so this podcast may hit close to home.
Tune in to this week’s episode and hear more anti-Hallmark love advice from Schopenhauer.
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Uncle Art makes for great pod. The commentary on love, at first sight, was especially meaningful as I was addressing the very same issue while observing people in the parking lot of the local Safeway. As I sat in my car looking about I saw all these people rendered almost faceless by their various masks. the most common feature left is the eyes which have always been a primary focal point of physical attraction. As I am inclined to do I got out my notebook and penned this poem:
First Love Goes Viral
I wonder if I were young
in this year of plague,
you know like before
I was in my prime
and the life of juggling
was still to come,
would I be likely
to fall in love at first sight
form six feet away.
Like I did that day
long ago by the river
when a blind girl asked my name
and my eyes became hers
all in a moment.
Could I see the fine person
beneath the N95 mask
If I had the nerve to ask
would I show up
with roses in rubber-gloved hands
and say that I liked hers
with delicate fingers
showing beautifully
beneath tight-stretched latex.
How would we find the magic moment
when PPE must fall
and our souls bare all
with courage and passion
in spite of the pall
making it hard to see
the ones we long to touch.
This is wonderful sir! Can I read it on the podcast? I’ll certainly attribute it to you.
Thanks so much for this.