The Two Fundamental Problems of Ethics

In The Two Fundamental Problems of Ethics, Arthur Schopenhauer presents two influential essays rooted in specific philosophical competitions from Scandinavia. The first, “Essay on the Freedom of the Will,” addresses the question of human free will and offers a structured examination of freedom from self-consciousness, ultimately winning the prize in Norway. The second essay, “The Basis of Morality,” examines the origins of moral values, positing that compassion is the foundation of ethics, yet it was denied an award despite being the sole submission for the Danish competition. Together, these works provide a concise overview of Schopenhauer’s ethical views, making them essential reading for those interested in moral philosophy.