On The Nietzschean Worldview

be first, be elite

Mankind ought constantly to be striving to produce great men—this and nothing else is its duty. - Nietzsche

I often find myself surrounded by people that find my habits and ways of doing things contrarian, unique, and atypical. I do things for a reason, my actions are carefully thought out and maniacally maintained. So, as Tyler The Creator says - I have two words for them, “F*** Em”.

This is a subset of the population that some would call “normies”, or perhaps I am the normie, and the overweight, slovenly dressed, and lethargic people are the true Overmen? Unfortunately, I am around these people far too often. Hence, their uncommon encounters with me and my aristocratic ways are unsettling to them.

People comment on the way I look, the way I dress, the way I speak, and the way I critique. This is intentional on my part because I am a Nietzschean and I strive to be the best version of myself. I don’t see a need to lower myself to the levels of others to “fit in”. That means I do whatever it takes to fully actualize my potential and accrue power. My will is strong and my discipline is impregnable.

For some, the path of the Ubermensch is a noble pursuit. For others, the constant pursuit of perfection is a daunting journey. Those that are the latter are simply weak, they realize that the chief aim is to fully live.

Why should you care about Nietzsche and more specifically his worldview? Because I am no lone wolf, there are a pack of killers out there ready to take it all and it’s not an even playing field. Advantages abound and the elite will dominate. This has always been the case. So, either step aside or buckle down and do what is needed to succeed.

The strong do what they will, and the weak suffer what they must. – Thucydides, “History of the Peloponnesian War” (c. 400 BC)

A worldview from on high

Ah, Nietzsche, a philosopher known for his profound and controversial ideas. The Nietzschean worldview can be characterized by several key concepts. Nietzsche rejected traditional moral and religious values, considering them restrictive and inhibitive to human potential. Instead, he emphasized the importance of individual will to power and the pursuit of self-mastery and self-creation. People tend to view Nietzsche as a nihilist, this cannot be further from the truth. Nietzsche wanted man to be strong, wise, and fecund. Life is to be actively lived!

Central to Nietzsche's philosophy is the idea of the "Ubermensch" or the "overman," an individual who transcends societal norms and embraces their own unique values and desires. Not just an individual, but an exceptional individual. Nietzsche believed that the Ubermensch should rise above the herd mentality and conventional morality, forging their own path and embracing life's inherent struggles and sufferings.

Nietzsche criticized the concept of objective truth, arguing that all knowledge is subjective and influenced by individual perspectives. He believed that human existence is characterized by an eternal recurrence, an affirmation of life in all its aspects, including its pains and joys.

Furthermore, Nietzsche denounced the notion of a transcendent afterlife, encouraging individuals to focus on the present and fully engage with the world around them. He celebrated human passions and instincts, advocating for a philosophy that embraces the full spectrum of human experiences.

Nietzsche's philosophy encompasses several additional aspects worth exploring. Here are a few more key ideas within the Nietzschean worldview:

• Master-slave morality: Nietzsche criticized traditional morality as being based on a master-slave dichotomy. He argued that conventional morality, which values traits such as meekness and humility, originates from the weak and oppressed who seek to control and undermine the strong. Nietzsche advocated for a reevaluation of moral values, suggesting that the strong and exceptional should determine their own moral standards.

• The Death of God: Nietzsche famously proclaimed, "God is dead." By this, he meant that traditional religious beliefs and values were losing their influence and relevance in a secularizing world. Nietzsche saw the death of God as an opportunity for humanity to embrace its own power and create new values based on individual experiences and perspectives.

• Eternal Recurrence: Nietzsche put forth the concept of eternal recurrence, suggesting that time is cyclical and that everything we experience will recur infinitely. This idea challenges individuals to embrace life fully and affirm it in its entirety, knowing that every joy and pain will repeat endlessly. Nietzsche believed that accepting this idea would inspire individuals to live authentically and passionately.

• Will to Power: Nietzsche proposed the idea of the "will to power," which he considered as a fundamental drive underlying all human actions. He viewed this as a striving for self-assertion, growth, and dominance over oneself and the surrounding world. Nietzsche saw the will to power as a creative and life-affirming force that motivates individuals to achieve their full potential.

• The Dionysian and Apollonian: Nietzsche drew upon the concepts of the Greek gods Dionysus and Apollo to illustrate contrasting aspects of human nature. The Dionysian represents the chaotic, passionate, and instinctual forces within us, while the Apollonian symbolizes rationality, order, and beauty. Nietzsche believed that the interplay between these forces is essential for a balanced and rich human existence.

These are just a few insights into the vast and intricate philosophy of Nietzsche. His ideas continue to provoke discussions and interpretations among scholars and philosophers, inspiring critical examinations of morality, human nature, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.

Man of Action

Relatedly, The concept of the "man of action" is not explicitly developed in Nietzsche's philosophy but is more associated with other thinkers and political theories. However, certain Nietzschean ideas can be connected to the notion of the man of action.

Nietzsche emphasized the significance of individual will to power and the pursuit of self-mastery. He celebrated the extraordinary and exceptional individuals who embrace their own values and desires, rising above societal norms. These individuals, often referred to as the Ubermensch or Overman, can be seen as embodying the qualities of the man of action.

The man of action theory generally refers to a figure who actively engages in the world and strives to bring about desired changes through decisive and purposeful actions. This concept is often linked to leadership, courage, and a proactive approach to shaping one's environment.

In the context of Nietzschean philosophy, the man of action could be someone who fully embraces their will to power, takes risks, and manifests their unique vision in the world. Such an individual is driven by a strong sense of purpose, guided by their own values rather than conforming to societal expectations.

However, it is important to note that Nietzsche's emphasis on individualism and the will to power does not necessarily imply an endorsement of any specific political or ethical system. The actions of the man of action, in a Nietzschean sense, would depend on their personal values and interpretation of their will to power, rather than conforming to a predetermined political agenda.

A prominent supporter of the man of action theory is the French philosopher and political theorist, Georges Sorel. Sorel is known for his influential work titled "Reflections on Violence," where he advocated for the concept of the "myth of the general strike" and the role of revolutionary violence in bringing about social change.

According to Sorel, the man of action is a heroic figure who possesses a powerful will and is willing to engage in direct action, including violent means, to achieve their goals. Sorel believed that social and political transformation could not be achieved through passive and gradual reform but required the passionate and resolute actions of individuals who embody the spirit of the man of action.

Sorel's ideas were influential in early 20th-century political movements, particularly within revolutionary and syndicalist circles. However, it is important to note that Sorel's concept of the man of action and his views on violence have been subject to different interpretations and have been both embraced and criticized by various political thinkers.

While Sorel may be seen as a notable proponent of the man of action theory, it is important to recognize that different political and philosophical traditions have different understandings of the concept, and interpretations can vary significantly depending on the context and specific ideological perspectives.

Sorel's views, particularly his advocacy of revolutionary violence and the concept of the man of action, have faced criticism from various quarters. Here are a few examples of critics who have offered differing perspectives on Sorel's ideas:

• Antonio Gramsci: The Italian Marxist philosopher Antonio Gramsci criticized Sorel's emphasis on violence and the role of the heroic individual. Gramsci argued for a more comprehensive understanding of social change that involved cultural and ideological struggles, rather than solely relying on violent upheaval. He advocated for the importance of building counter-hegemonic institutions and the gradual transformation of society through intellectual and cultural means

• Max Weber: The German sociologist Max Weber criticized Sorel's revolutionary violence and the concept of the man of action from a more practical standpoint. Weber argued that violence as a means of political change is unpredictable and often leads to unintended consequences. He advocated for the importance of rationalization and the rule of law in creating stable and functional societies.

• Hannah Arendt: The political theorist Hannah Arendt questioned the efficacy and morality of Sorel's emphasis on violent action. Arendt argued that violence can undermine the potential for genuine political freedom and create a cycle of violence and repression. She advocated for peaceful means of political engagement, emphasizing the importance of public discourse, collective action, and democratic processes.

It is important to note that while these thinkers criticized certain aspects of Sorel's views, their critiques do not necessarily reject the notion of action or the pursuit of social change. Rather, they offer alternative perspectives on the role of violence, the nature of political action, and the strategies for achieving meaningful transformation in society.

Overall, while Nietzsche's philosophy provides some philosophical groundwork for understanding the motivations and qualities associated with the man of action, the specific theories and applications of the man of action concept extend beyond Nietzsche's own writings and require a broader exploration of political theory.

Politics

The ideas of Friedrich Nietzsche have been interpreted and utilized in various ways in the realm of politics. It's important to note that Nietzsche himself did not propose a specific political system or provide a comprehensive political doctrine. However, his philosophical concepts have influenced political thought and movements in different contexts. Here are a few ways Nietzschean ideas have been applied in politics:

• Critique of democracy: Nietzsche was critical of the egalitarian tendencies of democratic systems, particularly when they promote mediocrity and discourage exceptional individuals from asserting their will to power. Some political thinkers have used Nietzsche's critique to question the potential drawbacks of a purely egalitarian society and advocate for the recognition of excellence and exceptional leadership.

• Will to power and authoritarianism: Nietzsche's concept of the will to power has been associated with political ideologies that emphasize strong, authoritative leadership. Some interpretations suggest that individuals with a strong will to power can lead societies effectively and provide the necessary direction and stability. However, it is important to note that Nietzsche himself criticized authoritarianism and warned against its dangers.

• Beyond good and evil: Nietzsche's rejection of traditional moral values and his emphasis on individual perspectives have influenced certain political movements that challenge established moral and ethical norms. Some political ideologies draw on Nietzsche's ideas to question the universal validity of moral principles and promote a more relativistic approach to ethics.

• Existential politics: Nietzsche's focus on individualism, authenticity, and the affirmation of life has resonated with existentialist political thought. Existentialist political philosophers explore the idea of individual freedom and responsibility, emphasizing the significance of personal choice and the pursuit of meaning in political decision-making.

It is essential to approach Nietzsche's ideas with caution and critical analysis, as they can be open to diverse interpretations and have been used to support various political viewpoints. Nietzsche's philosophy encourages individual reflection and the questioning of conventional wisdom, making it both a source of inspiration and a subject of ongoing debate in political theory.

Great Man

The Great Man Theory of history, associated with the philosopher and historian Thomas Carlyle, posits that historical events are primarily shaped by exceptional individuals, or "great men," who possess extraordinary qualities and exert significant influence on the course of events.

While there may be some conceptual overlap between the Great Man Theory and the idea of the man of action, there are also important differences. The Great Man Theory emphasizes the impact of individual leaders or figures on historical events, often focusing on their exceptional qualities, charisma, and ability to shape the course of history through their actions and decisions.

On the other hand, the man of action theory, as influenced by Nietzsche, is more concerned with the individual's will to power, authenticity, and pursuit of personal goals. It places emphasis on individuals who break away from societal norms and actively engage in shaping their own lives and environment.

It is worth noting that the Great Man Theory has been subject to criticism. Critics argue that it oversimplifies complex historical processes by attributing them solely to the actions of exceptional individuals, neglecting broader social, economic, and cultural factors that shape events.

When synthesizing these ideas, one could argue that while exceptional individuals may play a role in shaping historical events, their actions are situated within broader social contexts and influenced by various structural forces. The man of action, as envisioned by Nietzsche, is driven by personal authenticity and the pursuit of individual will to power, but their impact on history is intertwined with complex social dynamics and the collective actions of others.

Ultimately, synthesizing the Great Man Theory with the man of action theory involves recognizing the significance of exceptional individuals in history while acknowledging the broader context and interplay of societal factors that contribute to historical change.

Applying the ideas of exceptional individuals, personal authenticity, and the pursuit of personal goals to one's own life can be a meaningful endeavor. Here are a few ways individuals can incorporate these concepts into their lives:

• Embrace personal authenticity: Recognize and embrace your unique values, passions, and aspirations. Strive to live a life that aligns with your own authentic self rather than conforming to societal expectations or external pressures. Take the time to reflect on your true desires and interests, and make choices that reflect your individuality.

• Cultivate self-mastery and personal growth: Embrace the idea of self-mastery and the pursuit of personal excellence. Continuously work on developing your skills, knowledge, and abilities. Set goals that challenge you and push your boundaries, and strive to become the best version of yourself.

• Take initiative and be proactive: Don't wait for things to happen; take initiative and be proactive in shaping your own life. Identify opportunities for growth, change, or positive impact, and take decisive action to pursue them. Be willing to take risks and embrace the unknown, as it can lead to personal growth and new experiences.

• Embrace challenges and setbacks: Understand that life is not without its struggles and setbacks. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Nietzsche believed that embracing the full spectrum of human experiences, including pain and suffering, is essential to living authentically.

• Cultivate a strong sense of purpose: Discover and nurture a sense of purpose that is meaningful to you. Identify what gives your life meaning and direction, and work towards fulfilling that purpose. Your purpose can be driven by personal goals, a desire to make a positive impact on others, or a quest for personal fulfillment.

In Sum

The Nietzschean worldview encompasses the rejection of traditional values, the affirmation of individual will to power, the pursuit of self-mastery, and the embrace of life's struggles and passions. It is a philosophy that seeks to liberate individuals from societal constraints and encourages the pursuit of personal authenticity and fulfillment.

Remember that applying these concepts is a personal journey, and each individual's path will be unique. It requires self-reflection, introspection, and ongoing commitment to personal growth. By embracing your own authenticity, pursuing personal goals, and taking proactive action, you can shape your life in a way that is true to yourself and meaningful to you.