Chat 51: Nietzsche vs. Schopenhauer: Does suffering hinder us or refine us?

We all encounter misfortunes and challenges—so what do we do? Do we try to numb the pain and seek comfort, or do we confront it and move forward with life? In chat 51, we will discuss Schopenhauer's and Nietzsche's views on suffering. Discussion points: 1. Your name, mentioning your favorite stand-up comedian; if you don't enjoy this form of entertainment, explain why. 2. Viewing existence as fulfilling endless desires—does this make life enjoyable or a constant suffering? 3. Is suffering external to existence, or an integral part of it? 4. Is pain a misfortune or a teacher? 5. Is withdrawing into oneself and immersing in the arts an escape from confrontation or a practical response? 6. When shaping general societal structures, would you prefer to focus on supporting the vulnerable, or providing opportunities for the exceptional to succeed? 7. Why do we find Nietzsche's philosophy more widespread than Schopenhauer's? English Literature Department