Nietzsche's Influence on Political Philosophy: A Critical Analysis

Virtually everything my generation discussed—

tried to think through—one might say, suffered one might also say spun out—had long been expressed and exhausted by Nietzsche who had found definitive formulation the rest was exegesis.” - Gottfried Benn

Introduction to Friedrich Nietzsche

Friedrich Nietzsche, born in 1844, is renowned for his profound contributions to both philosophy and literature. His works, often celebrated by scholars and criticized by others, have left a lasting impact on modern thought. Nietzsche is perhaps best known as the advocate of great wars and power politics, as well as the opponent of political liberalism and democracy. These two concepts encapsulate what many have labeled "the tough Nietzscheans." However, there are also "tender Nietzscheans," who argue that Nietzsche criticized totalitarianism and denounced the state as 'the New Idol' (Zarathustra I 11).

Paradoxical Views of Nietzsche

While the "tender Nietzscheans" claim that Nietzsche was a kind and charitable person who was not necessarily a lover of liberal democracy, some misinterpret these statements to conclude that he must have been a liberal, democrat, or socialist. Yet, this is not the case; Nietzsche opposed the idolatry of the state and political liberalism due to his fundamental 'antipolitical' stance (Ecce Homo I 3).

Comparisons with Machiavelli

Like Niccolò Machiavelli before him, Nietzsche encouraged people to reconsider the traditional Christian doctrine of altruism and self-sacrifice as the only basis for moral order. His concept of the 'will to power' legitimized the actions of power-hungry and forceful individuals, which many critics argue is not a contribution to political philosophy or human well-being.

Analysis and Evaluation of Nietzsche's Ideas

One can observe that Nietzsche based his views on human psychology and the will to power. He predicted that with the decline of metaphysics, the traditional moral equilibrium would no longer be sustainable. This shift has led to increasing paranoia, fear, and confusion. Nietzsche argued that a new kind of 'aristocracy' would emerge, based on the outcome of a struggle to determine who is the 'best' and has the right to rule.

According to Nietzsche, natural and inevitable divisions would develop between those who could withstand the hostility and worldviews post-metaphysics and the masses. The latter would increasingly become 'levelling down' due to their reliance on metaphysics. This division would inevitably lead to a new leader, someone who could maintain themselves in the face of great hostility from the masses.

Conclusion

Nietzsche's ideas continue to influence and challenge contemporary political philosophy. While his vision of a struggle for power may be controversial, it invites critical evaluation and discussion on the nature of power, morality, and human nature in the modern world.

Keywords: Nietzsche, Political Philosophy, Will to Power