An Introduction to Nietzsche as Political Thinker: The Perfect Nihilist - Hardcover

Ansell-Pearson, Keith

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521417228 ISBN 13: 9780521417228

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1994

Synopsis

This is a lively and engaging introduction to the contentious topic of Nietzsche's political thought. It traces the development of Nietzsche's thinking on politics from his earliest writings to the mature work in which he advocates aristocratic radicalism as opposed to 'petty' European nationalism. The key ideas of the will to power, eternal return and the overman are discussed and all Nietzsche's major works analysed in detail, such as Beyond Good and Evil and The Genealogy of Morals, within the context of the concerns of modern political theory. The book concludes with an assessment of Nietzsche's enduring relevance and of the insights afforded by contemporary liberal and feminist readings. This textbook will be essential for all students of Nietzsche and of the history of political ideas. It includes a chronology of Nietzsche's life and works and a guide to further reading.

About this title

Review

"This book provides a sound introduction to Nietzsche's political thought....Strongly recommended for undergraduates at all levels." Choice

"It is one of the singular merits of Ansell-Pearson's book that he not only explains cogently the ways in which Nietzsche is an important political thinker but also clarifies the stages of his development. Furthermore, the author furnishes a number of insightful criticisms of both Nietzsche and Nietzsche interpreters....Ansell-Pearson's book is a meritorious work that should be read and reflected upon, for it helps us to understand Nietzsche, as Nietzsche, Ansell-Pearson rightly remarks, helps us to understand the age in which we live." John Riser, European Studies Journal

"...highly accessible and engaging study of Nietsche's political philosophy..." International Studies in Philosophy

"An excellent introduction to Nietzche's thought, and a book to be welcomed as well by scholars in political theory, philosophy, and any field concerned about emancipatory politics." Religious Studies Review

"...compelling....in the breadth of its sweep..." New Nietzsche Studies

Book Description

This is a lively introduction to the contentious topic of Nietzsche's politics, confronting directly his appropriation by the Nazis. The key ideas of the will to power, eternal return and the overman are discussed, and all Nietzsche's major works analysed in the context of modern political concerns.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1994
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521417228
• ISBN 13: 9780521417228
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 263