Nietzsche’s Critique of Metaphysics and Western Morality

Critique of Metaphysics

Metaphysics, according to Nietzsche, is founded on a static concept of being, positing an eternal and immutable essence. This concept fails to capture the dynamic nature of reality. Metaphysical distinctions, though seemingly theoretical, conceal value judgments, elevating abstract concepts like essence, spirit, and substance over material existence and human experience (feelings, emotions, passions, instincts). This worldview stems from a fear of life’s inherent dynamism, leading philosophers to seek refuge in abstract ideas and a transcendent realm, denying the reality of change, death, and passion. Metaphysics, therefore, serves as a psychological mechanism to escape life’s unpredictability and a moral justification for the unnatural. Nietzsche argues that the pursuit of truth in metaphysics is ultimately a manifestation of the will to power, an attempt to impose order and meaning onto a chaotic world.

Critique of Morality

Nietzsche criticizes traditional Western morality, rooted in Platonism, for its opposition to natural instincts and its elevation of the rational over the physical. This morality, exemplified by Socrates and Plato, posits a transcendent realm of ideals and denigrates the body and earthly desires. Nietzsche argues that these philosophical distinctions are not innocent but conceal moral evaluations, reflecting a preference for a life detached from passions and desires. Philosophers, in their quest for truth, seek to justify their own ascetic lifestyle by creating a fictional world of moral values.

The Genealogy of Moral Values

In On the Genealogy of Morality, Nietzsche traces the evolution of moral values. Initially, “good” was associated with nobility and power, while “bad” was associated with commonality. However, over time, a reversal of values occurred, led by priests who, unable to live like the nobles, inverted these values out of resentment. This “slave revolt in morality” resulted in the elevation of humility, generosity, and other virtues associated with weakness, while condemning the strength and vitality of the noble spirit. Christianity, according to Nietzsche, is a prime example of this slave morality, contributing to the decline of the Roman Empire.