Schopenhauers Philosophy in the Modern Context: A Seamless Integration with Evolutionary Theory
Introduction
Simon Conway Morris and Arthur Schopenhauer, two towering figures in the realms of modern and classical philosophy, have much to offer in understanding the complexities of nature. Morris has speculated that 'brains require a mental atmosphere to operate,' emphasizing the importance of intellect and environment in shaping life. Schopenhauer's philosophical writings, particularly his exploration of the will in nature, provide a lens through which we can analyze the interplay between modern scientific theories and ancient philosophical insights.
Clarifying the Concepts
The term 'mental atmosphere' that Conway Morris uses is akin to 'intellect' or 'cerebral rationality' in a broader context. This notion aligns with the idea that a given life form needs to operate within a specific environment, which requires a certain level of intellect to function effectively. Schopenhauer's notion of 'will' as a central force in nature ties into this idea of an environment that shapes intellectual and physical attributes.
Revising Kant and Hume's Writings
Arthur Schopenhauer had much to say about Immanuel Kant's and David Hume's works, particularly in his book 'Of the Will in Nature.' In this text, he critically examined Kant's concept of the 'thing in itself' versus the phenomenon, arguing that this will is 'nothing but what we find within ourselves,' and it is independent of knowledge, which is a secondary and later development.
“This will far from being inseparable from and even a mere result of knowledge differs radically and entirely from and is quite independent of knowledge which is secondary and of later origin and can consequently subsist and manifest itself without knowledge: a thing which actually takes place throughout the whole of Nature from the animal kingdom downwards.”
Schopenhauer's argument aligns with Hume's skepticism, suggesting that the will is intrinsic and primary, preceding and independent of knowledge. This is a crucial point in understanding the force that drives all life forms on earth.
Connecting Schopenhauer and Evolutionary Theory
Darwin's theory of natural selection is a well-known concept in evolutionary biology. However, Schopenhauer's theory of the will in nature provides a metaphysical understanding that complements this, suggesting that the will is a fundamental force that drives existence and action. Schopenhauer argued that the will is not just the force behind voluntary actions but is responsible for the organic mechanisms, the shape and quality of living bodies, the vegetation of plants, and even inorganic nature like crystallization.
“that all this I say in itself i.e. independently of phenomenon which only means independently of our brain and its representations is absolutely identical with the will we find within us and know as intimately as we can know anything”
This idea, while profound, may seem abstract. Yet, it suggests that the basis of all life and phenomenon is the same essential will, which functions independently of human consciousness and mental constructs.
The Synthesis of Ancient and Modern Thought
Conway Morris' insights about the mental atmosphere required for brains to operate align with Schopenhauer's philosophy of the will in nature, providing a bridge between ancient and modern thought. The will, as Schopenhauer sees it, is the driving force behind all existence, from the smallest cell to the vast forces of nature like gravity.
Furthermore, Schopenhauer's metaphysics of the will is a natural extension of Hume's skepticism and evolutionary theory. It supports the idea that the same underlying will governs all life forms, a notion that is both profoundly philosophical and scientifically sound.
In conclusion, Schopenhauer's philosophy and Conway Morris' insights provide a holistic understanding of life forms and their interactions with their environments. By examining the will in nature, we can better understand the underlying principles that drive the diversity and complexity of life, connecting ancient philosophical ideas with modern scientific theories.