Nietzsche, Volumes 3&4: The Will to Power as Knowledge and as Metaphysics & Nihilism : Book Review

"Nietzsche, Volumes 3 & 4" by Martin Heidegger provides a deep exploration of Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophy from an existentialist perspective. As a renowned philosopher himself, Heidegger offers a comprehensive analysis and interpretation of Nietzsche's works, shedding new light on his revolutionary ideas.

Heidegger's focus in these volumes is Nietzsche's concept of the will to power, which he argues is the fundamental driving force behind human existence. He dives into the intricacies of this notion, discussing its implications for ethics, metaphysics, and our understanding of reality. Heidegger's thorough examination of Nietzsche's philosophy not only offers valuable insights for scholars but also engages enthusiasts who are curious about existentialist thought.

One significant aspect of Heidegger's analysis is Nietzsche's critique of traditional metaphysics and the proposal of a new framework for comprehending reality. Heidegger unravels Nietzsche's arguments and presents them in a clear and accessible manner, making this book an invaluable resource for those studying or interested in existentialist philosophy.

However, Heidegger's analysis is not limited to mere theoretical discussions. He also explores the practical applications of Nietzsche's ideas, particularly in the ethical realm. He delves into the ethical implications of the will to power and its potential impact on human society. By adopting this practical approach, Heidegger's work appeals to a wide range of readers, offering thought-provoking perspectives on the complexities of human existence.

In conclusion, "Nietzsche, Volumes 3 & 4" offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of Nietzsche's philosophy through the expertise of Martin Heidegger. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Nietzsche's ideas, existentialist philosophy, or the intersection of ethics and metaphysics. It presents a thorough exploration of Nietzsche's philosophy while providing valuable insights and practical implications for a deeper understanding of human existence.

What are readers saying?

The reviews for Martin Heidegger's book "Nietzsche" (Volumes 3 & 4) reflect the complexity of both the author and the subject matter. Overall, opinions on the book are mixed, with some readers praising Heidegger's in-depth analysis of Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophy, while others struggle with the dense and difficult writing.

Some reviewers commend the book for its profound insight into Nietzsche's philosophy, appreciating Heidegger's ability to capture the essence of Nietzsche's thought in a comprehensive manner. They find the depth of analysis and nuanced understanding of Nietzsche's ideas to be rewarding and enlightening. Key concepts such as the will to power, eternal recurrence, and the ubermensch are explored in a thorough manner.

On the other hand, some reviewers find Heidegger's writing style challenging. They describe the book as dense and full of abstract philosophizing, making it difficult to follow and comprehend. The lack of clarity and accessibility can hinder the overall enjoyment for these readers. Some even suggest that a prior understanding of Heidegger's philosophy is necessary to fully appreciate this book.

There is a general consensus that Heidegger's interpretation of Nietzsche can be controversial. While some consider it insightful and well-argued, others question his objectivity and argue that his interpretation may be biased by his own philosophical inclinations. This divisive aspect of the book adds to the complexity of its reception among readers.

Despite the differing opinions, it is clear that this book is recommended for those with a strong interest in Nietzsche's philosophy and a willingness to engage with dense philosophical texts. However, for readers who are unfamiliar with Heidegger's work or Nietzsche's philosophy, it may be beneficial to start with introductory texts before tackling these volumes.

NietzscheVolumes Philosophy Existentialism