5
QuizMultiple Choice

Unit 7: Western Philosophy in the Nineteenth Century

Question 5 • Philosophy: The Big Picture

Why is Schopenhauer’s prioritizing of compassion a bit surprising given his other philosophies?

Answer
A
It is not surprising because compassion was only for children.
B
He had a low opinion of human beings, so kindness is unexpected.
C
He only liked art and music, despising all living creatures.
D
He believed that everyone is doomed to cause others to suffer.

Explanation

Schopenhauer had a generally pessimistic view of human nature and human life. Given that low opinion of people, his emphasis on compassion as an important moral value can seem unexpected. Choice B captures this contrast; the other choices make claims that do not explain why prioritizing compassion is surprising.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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