Part 5/9:
Another philosopher, Arthur Schopenhauer, found significance in embracing pessimism. His views, often dismissed or criticized, garnered admiration as they articulated the pitfalls of needlessly seeking social validation. He recognized that a preoccupation with the opinions of others is a deep-seated human frailty that invites more pain than joy.
Schopenhauer asserted that people's opinions are frequently flawed and arbitrary. To pursue validation from them is akin to surrendering one’s autonomy. His recommendation to abandon such pursuits resonates with Aurelius: relinquishing control of what is outside one’s moral realm ultimately fosters peace of mind.