From Year 0 (BCE/CE): 1899
Share :
Email
Print

Peter Zapffe (1899-1990, age 90)

Peter Zapffe (1899-1990, age 90)

Norwegian philosopher, Zapffe is known for extending Schopenhauer’s dark existentialism and framing human consciousness as an evolutionary misstep. He believed that human self-awareness leads to suffering because it far exceeds what is necessary for survival. In my writing, I caution against limiting ourselves to Zapffe’s fatalistic views. His four strategies for coping with this burden—isolation, anchoring, distraction, and sublimation—are interesting but focus on enduring, not thriving. I advocate for embracing the wild horse of existence by choosing paths that emphasize meaning and enjoyment.

Share this on...
Weekly Wisdom Builder 
4 minutes of leisurely exploration.
February 5, 2025 Edition
Quote of the Week
Time Left: 

Email Notification
Subscribe to our Weekly Wisdom BuilderIt’s Free! No ads! No catches! One email each Thursday.

Exactly what the world needs RIGHT NOW!
Wisdom at the crossroads of knowledge.

Wisdom emerges from the consistent exploration of the intersections of philosophy, science, critical thinking, and history.

NEW BOOK! NOW AVAILABLE!!

30 Philosophers: A New Look at Timeless Ideas

by Michael Alan Prestwood
The story of the history of our best ideas!
divider-red-swirls1.png
Scroll to Top