The Non-Contradictions of Suicide by Starvation According to Schopenhauer’s Philosophy

Abstract

In Schopenhauer’s philosophy suicide is condemned as a futile action, because it operates only at a phenomenal level, without affecting the thing in itself (the will). However, there is a peculiar exception regarding to death by own hand, this is the case of suicide by starvation committed by the highest degree of asceticism. At first sight, it might seem that this acknowledgment would imply deeper contradictions underlying Schopenhauer’s concept of death. Nevertheless, when delving into this type of suicide in the light of the Schopenhauerian doctrine of palingenesis and negation of the will to live, it is revealed that the death by voluntary starvation is articulated within his philosophy without inconvenience. A correct understanding of ascetic suicide nuances Schopenhauer's condemnatory judgment of voluntary death, thereby contributing to a critical deepening of the internal coherence of his philosophy and an adequate overview of his analysis of suicide. The peculiar recognition of suicide by starvation marks a precedent with respect to the ways of approaching the phenomenon of voluntary death, this exceptional position and treatment represents a contribution to suicide studies