In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ Wehry sits down with Dr. David Bather Woods to explore the remarkable life behind one of history’s most influential—and misunderstood—thinkers: Arthur Schopenhauer.
Drawing from his new book, Arthur Schopenhauer: The Life and Thought of Philosophy’s Greatest Pessimist, Dr. Bather Woods reveals how Schopenhauer’s turbulent biography shaped his philosophy, why his ideas resonated so late in life, and how a man famous for pessimism became a surprising influence on artists, feminists, early advocates for animal welfare, and even modern conversations about compassion.
Whether you’re new to Schopenhauer or already fascinated by his work, this episode offers an accessible, engaging guide to the man whose ideas shaped Nietzsche, inspired generations of artists, and still challenge how we think about suffering, meaning, and how to live well.
If you're interested in philosophy, biography, pessimism, ethics, German idealism, or the history of ideas, this conversation is for you.
Make sure to check out Dr. Woods' book: Arthur Schopenhauer: The Life and Thought of Philosophy’s Greatest Pessimist 👉 https://us.amazon.com/dp/B0F2VDV4KN/
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Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud.
These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop.
Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.