Explore tens of thousands of sets crafted by our community.
Friedrich Nietzsche and Existentialism
20
Flashcards
0/20
Herrenmoral vs. Sklavenmoral
Referring to master vs. slave morality, Nietzsche believed that the aristocratic 'master' morality is based on a spontaneous affirmation of oneself, while 'slave' morality arises as a reaction to oppression. Existentialism may consider how one's life choices are affected by these moral outlooks.
Amor fati (Love of Fate)
Nietzsche championed embracing life's experiences, including suffering, as necessary to the creation of character. In existentialism, this can be seen as the challenge of accepting one's freedom and the responsibilities that come with creating one's essence.
Perspectivism
Nietzsche argued that there are no universal truths, only individual perspectives. This subjectivity is core to existentialism, which posits that individuals must forge their own truths in a world devoid of intrinsic meaning.
Eternal Recurrence
This thought experiment asks if one would choose to live the same life over and over again for eternity. It challenges individuals to live a life they could affirm in each moment. Existentialism similarly values living sincerely and passionately in the face of absurdity.
Aesthetic Existentialism
Nietzsche saw life and the world as a work of art, where individuals must create their own purpose and order. This ties closely to existentialism, where creation of personal meaning and values in a seemingly chaotic world is paramount.
The Apollonian and Dionysian
These terms describe two contrasting aspects of human nature. The Apollonian represents order and reason, while the Dionysian represents chaos and passion. Existentialism also contemplates the balance between rationality and emotional depth in human existence.
Übermensch (Overman/Superman)
The Übermensch is Nietzsche's idea of the individual who transcends conventional morality to create his or her own values, thus living life authentically. Existentialists are inspired by this notion to emphasize personal freedom and responsibility.
The Will to Power
Nietzsche proposed that the fundamental driving force in humans is the 'will to power', an urge to impose one's own values and assert one's influence. In existentialism, this concept highlights the individual's struggle for authenticity and self-mastery in an indifferent or even hostile universe.
Genealogy of Morals
In his work, Nietzsche analyzes the history of moral concepts, suggesting that power dynamics have shaped them, rather than them being eternally fixed truths. Existentialism, too, explores the relative and dynamic nature of morals and ethics.
Master-Slave Morality
Nietzsche distinguished between master morality, which values pride and power, and slave morality, which values things like kindness, empathy, and sympathy. Existentialism often grapples with the consequences of rejecting traditional moral structures.
Nihilism
Nietzsche recognized the danger of nihilism - the belief that life is meaningless - which he saw as a possible consequence of the 'death of God'. Existentialists also confront nihilism, seeking to find or create meaning despite its challenges.
The Death of God
Nietzsche declared 'God is dead', meaning that the Enlightenment had 'killed' the possibility of belief in a coherent, all-powerful God. Existentialism uses this vacuum to argue for individual meaning-making in a universe without preordained values.
Resentiment
Nietzsche uses 'resentiment' to describe a psychological state resulting from suppressed feelings of envy and hatred. Existentialism deals with overcoming such states to live authentic and free lives.
Existential Angst
While not explicit in Nietzsche's writings, the concept of existential angst over freedom, choice, and the burden of existence is implicit in his work. Existentialism addresses this directly, exploring the anxiety one feels when facing true freedom.
Affirmation of Life
Nietzsche advocates for a full-hearted yes to life, including its suffering and challenges. This idea is central to existentialism, which encourages embracing life's struggles and finding meaning through them.
Revaluation of Values
Nietzsche called for a critical reassessment and revision of our moral values. For existentialists, this process is necessary for individuals to live authentically, free from societal and religious preconceptions.
Radical Individualism
Nietzsche's philosophy elevates the individual as the creator of values and meaning. Existentialism similarly emphasizes individual experience and responsibility in constructing a personal worldview.
Critique of Christianity
Nietzsche critiqued Christianity for promoting what he considered slave morality. Existentialists often debate the influence of religion on one's personal freedom and authenticity.
The Role of Suffering
Nietzsche saw suffering as an integral part of the human condition and a means to personal growth. This aligns with existentialism's view that suffering can be a catalyst for personal development and the search for meaning.
Self-Creation and Authenticity
For Nietzsche, individuals are responsible for their self-formation and must craft their lives authentically. Existentialism romanticizes this notion of self-creation and the journey towards an authentic life.
© Hypatia.Tech. 2024 All rights reserved.