The Schopenhauer Cure

Brief Overview

«The Schopenhauer Cure» by Irvin Yalom tells the story of psychotherapist Julius Hertzfeld, who learns he has terminal cancer and decides to conduct his final group therapy sessions. At the heart of the story is Hertzfeld's encounter with Philip Slate, a former patient who embraces the philosophy of Arthur Schopenhauer and unexpectedly becomes part of the group. The book explores themes of life and death, the therapeutic process, and the impact of Schopenhauer's philosophy on the personal transformations of the group members and Hertzfeld himself, illustrating how the past influences the present and future.