Julius Frauenstädt and the controversy of materialism

Abstract

This article aims to shed light on the position held by Julius Frauenstädt, one of Schopenhauer’s disciples, during the Materialism controversy (specifically, during its first phase). To do so, firstly this controversy will be presented in board outline by analiysing the works of Carl Vogt and Rudolph Wagner; then, secondly, Frauenstädt as an autonomous thinker and his judgment on materialism will be examined. Finally, by conclusion, it will be examined how Julius Frauenstädt’s participation in the controversy was a turning point in his intellectual relationship with Arthur Schopenhauer due to their disagreement about the practical consequences of materialism.