On conjugal happiness : experiences, reflections and advice of a medical man / by L. Loewenfeld ; translated from the third edition by Ronald E. S. Krohn.

  • Löwenfeld, L. (Leopold), 1843-1924.
Date:
1912
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Licence: In copyright

Credit: On conjugal happiness : experiences, reflections and advice of a medical man / by L. Loewenfeld ; translated from the third edition by Ronald E. S. Krohn. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    these of the happiness- of the soul, but it differs in so far as, according to the Christian as opposed to the Stoic view, the inflexible will of man himself does not alone suffice to attain true inward happiness, the co-operation of the Grace of God being also needed. Further, it must not be forgotten, that Christianity puts no value at all on mundane happiness, and directs mankind to set its hopes on true and enduring happiness* in a future life. The views of the more modern philosophical writers still for the most part show the influence of Greek philosophy. Leibnitz finds true happiness in a virtuous life and the love of God; Spinoza, in the highest possible perfection of reason, and according to him bliss is not the reward of virtue, but virtue itself. Kant regards bliss as the inevitable consequence of a moral life, even if this reward be not attained before reaching the world to come.1 Schopenhauer, on the other hand, confines himself to a description of the immediate psychological antecedents of happiness, and his views form a transition to the modern views based on natural science, which we shall presently have to consider. “ All satisfaction,” he remarks, ” or what is commonly known as happiness, is invariably in reality and in its essence merely negative, and certainly never positive. It is not a gratification coming to us as such primarily and of itself, but must always be the gratification of some desire, for a desire, i.e., a want, is always the antecedent condition of every pleasure. As soon as it has been satisfied the desire, and consequently the pleasure, ceases. Hence satisfaction or gratification can never be more than a liberation from pain, from some want, for to this category belong, not only every form of real manifest suffering, but also every desire, the importunity of which disturbs our peace of mind, nay, even that deadly ennui that makes life a burden to us.” 1 “ Kritik der prakt. Vernunft ” (page 150). Elsewhere he remarks : “ Bliss is the watchword of the whole world. But it is not to be found anywhere in nature, which is not receptive under existing circumstances to bliss or content- ment. It is only to be worthy of happiness, that is attainable by man.” (Vol. viii, p. 643.)
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