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An Overview of Some of Nietzsche's Ideas (By Mr. Mandoela Svartgold)


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Some of Nietzsche's ideas I identified with


So, I'd like to highlight the enduring themes in the Friedrich Nietzsche's work. These themes are surprisingly free of any desire for control or manipulation. My deep understanding of the author's work, gained through multiple readings, allows me to identify these recurring messages. By exploring these enduring themes, we can gain valuable insights from Nietzsche's work. I trust this analysis will be appreciated.






The Art of Words: Nietzsche on Communication -- Nietzsche explained that every sentence can be rounded to the benefit of the person himself if he knows how to express himself adequately. That is, you can make a person understand you the way you want if you are fluent in speech and learn to leverage it to your advantage. Perhaps he warned others that a word is not enough. A person should ask and understand what that person means before deciding as he sees fit. "Bright words, inventions, and brilliance, everything can be twisted".


Nietzsche on Collective Punishment and the Concept of God -- In his pre-Zarathustra writings, Nietzsche explores the idea of collective punishment. He suggests that the concept of a universal death sentence, where everyone suffers the same fate regardless of their actions, could be seen as a form of collective punishment for humanity's ills. This aligns with his critique of a vengeful God who imposes suffering on all. He writes:



In The Decline of the Idols, he further criticizes the idea of God as a source of control and punishment. He views religions that portray God as a "sick" or vengeful being as detrimental to humanity. Such a God, he argues, fosters resentment towards life rather than celebrating it.


"God, is like the God of the sick, God like a spider, God is like a spirit -- this is one of the greatest acts of corruption in humanity. God is a hostility and a disappointment to life. Is it such a victorious world?"

Nietzsche on Crowds and the Soul in "Beyond Good and Evil" -- In his book Beyond Good and Evil, translated by Dr. Israel Eldad, Friedrich Nietzsche criticizes the stifling effect of crowds on the soul. He argues that those with a "soul to breathe fresh air" – those who value individuality and independent thought – should avoid them. Here, "fresh air" symbolizes freedom and authenticity, threatened by the conformity and "impurity" Nietzsche associates with crowds.


He specifically warns against churches, where the presence of a large group fosters hypocrisy and stifles the expression of a genuine soul.


"If you have the soul to breathe fresh air, and because the soul has degrees and edges. If you want to rest and breathe, you should avoid entering the churches because there is a crowd in a certain holy place; there is also hypocrisy there. And when there is a crowd, there is impurity."


The Trials of Youth -- Young people, driven by emotions and passions, often make choices that later bring shame and regret. They yearn to change, to create a new path, and shed the perceived excess of kindness associated with their youth. This disillusionment with their initial innocence can lead to a suspicion of their own feelings, a state Nietzsche called "voluntary blindness."


Later on, when the young soul, tortured by continual disillusions, finally turns suspiciously against itself—still ardent and savage even in its suspicion and remorse of conscience: how it upbraids itself, how impatiently it tears itself, how it revenges itself for its long self-blinding, as though it had been a voluntary blindness!

Believing their emotions are unreliable, some young people may be tempted by revenge. However, Nietzsche argues that seeking vengeance creates a self-fulfilling cycle ("boomerang"). Each person's soul develops through unique stages, and a lack of emotional maturity in youth can lead to these struggles.


The Enigma of Self-Knowledge -- The maxim of "know thyself" compels us to grapple with a fundamental question: can we ever truly understand who we are? Every triumph and setback shapes our perception of human nature, leading us to question: does success alone define someone's character? Are there unseen accomplishments that paint a more nuanced picture?


Anti-thesis -- In his book Human, All Too Human, Friedrich Nietzsche highlights the crucial role of understanding the subconscious. He argues that the subconscious acts as a "narrow opening" through which hidden truths can emerge. However, this very gate can also allow "lies" to sneak in. This implies that not all our thoughts and beliefs are reliable, and critical self-reflection is necessary.


Better To Be Heard - In his influential works, Beyond Good and Evil and Thus Spoke Zarathustra, Friedrich Nietzsche emphasizes the importance of communication that transcends mere words. He argues that effectively conveying one's message requires a level of artistry akin to music. Nietzsche suggests using vocal tone and delivery to create a "musical" effect. This implies that the way we speak, with its rhythm, emphasis, and melody, can significantly impact how our message is received.


Nietzsche and the Potential for Genius -- Friedrich Nietzsche frequently explores the concept of genius. He doesn't necessarily believe everyone is a genius in a specific field, but that everyone has the potential for greatness in some area. The crucial factor, according to Nietzsche, is opportunity. When presented with an opportunity, a person needs to seize it and develop their talents.


Nietzsche acknowledges that even in fields one finds uninteresting, success can be achieved. However, the lack of passion for the field might hinder the individual from fully expressing their genius.


"The genius conceives an idea and executes it through his belief that he is God. The genius raises victims in the form of humans and grants them rights to weapons, to work."

In Beyond Good and Evil, Nietzsche delves into the potential downsides of genius. He suggests that a published genius, consumed by their creation, might become distant from humanity. This distance can resemble a god-like figure, detached from the consequences of their work.


The metaphor of "raising victims" likely refers to the potential negative impact a genius's creation can have on others. Granting "rights to weapons" could symbolize the power dynamics inherent in the work a genius produces. This power can be abused, with negative consequences for others.



Context and Misunderstandings -- It's important to note that Nietzsche's writings often criticize the aristocracy. It's unlikely he argued for them to receive more rights simply because of wealth. He might be suggesting that the privileged position of the aristocracy allows them greater access to opportunities for developing their talents, potentially creating an unfair advantage.


Sources


Beyond Good and Evil - translated by Dr. Israel Eldad


Thus Spoke Zarathustra - translated by Ilana Hammerman


The Sunset of the Idols - translated by Dr. Israel Eldad

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Tomasio A. Rubinshtein, Philosocom's Founder & Writer

I am a philosopher. I'm also a semi-hermit who has decided to dedicate my life to writing and sharing my articles across the globe to help others with their problems and combat shallowness. More information about me can be found here.

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