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Start for freeFriedrich Nietzsche's Critique of 20th Century Political Ideologies
The Emergence of Major Political Strands
The 20th century witnessed the clash of three dominant political ideologies: liberalism, communism, and fascism. This battle, epitomized by World War II, saw the defeat of fascism, narrowing the ideological struggle to liberalism versus communism during the Cold War. Despite being stamped out, fascism's relevance and the necessity for a Nietzschean critique remain pressing.
Nietzsche's Unique Position
Among the three ideologies, fascism holds a paradoxical place in Nietzsche's philosophy. It's deemed both irrelevant, due to its eradication in the West, and critically important for Nietzschean critique, given its historical misuse of Nietzsche's ideas. Fascism's appeal to nationalism and class collaboration reflects a modern political landscape far removed from Nietzsche's vision.
Nietzsche and Fascism: A Critical Examination
Fascism's reliance on mass energy and state control starkly contrasts with Nietzsche's disdain for the state and skepticism towards nationalism. Nietzsche's philosophy, advocating for individuality and the transcendence of modern values, fundamentally opposes the collectivist and authoritarian nature of fascism.
The Misappropriation of Nietzsche by Fascists
Historically, fascists have wrongly appropriated Nietzsche, labeling him a proto-fascist. However, Nietzsche's critique of anti-Semitism, his embrace of Jewish intellectual contributions, and his rejection of German nationalism highlight his opposition to fascist ideologies.
The State as a Monstrous Entity
Nietzsche's critique extends to the modern state, which he views as an overbearing force stifling individuality and culture. His notion of the
