NIETZSCHE ON MORALITY

In this short lecture, Dr. Nash Jocic will break down Nietzsche’s critique of morality, explaining how it challenges traditional values and encourages self-mastery. Dr. Nash Jocic will explain how Nietzsche’s revolutionary ideas on morality still shape modern thought!

Friedrich Nietzsche was one of the most radical critics of traditional morality. He rejected conventional moral systems, especially those rooted in Christianity and Enlightenment rationalism, arguing that they promote weakness and suppress human potential. Instead, Nietzsche introduced the concept of "master morality" and **"slave morality,"**emphasizing the role of power, instincts, and will in shaping moral values.
Nietzsche believed that morality is not universal but a product of history and power struggles. He distinguished between two types:
Master Morality – Associated with the noble, strong, and powerful individuals who define their own values based on strength, creativity, and life-affirmation. Good is what is strong, independent, and noble, while bad is weak and mediocre.
Slave Morality – Born out of resentment from the weak and oppressed. It inverts master morality, glorifying humility, obedience, and suffering. Nietzsche argued that Christianity and democracy are products of slave morality, promoting equality and meekness to control the strong.
Nietzsche saw life as driven by the "will to power," the fundamental force behind human ambition and creativity. Unlike traditional morality, which suppresses natural instincts, the will to power encourages self-overcoming and personal excellence.
Nietzsche criticized the simplistic distinction between good and evil, arguing that moral values are human constructs. Instead of following herd morality, individuals should create their own values and strive for greatness.
Nietzsche’s ideal was the Übermensch, a person who transcends traditional morality and creates new values based on strength, self-expression, and artistic will. The Übermensch is not bound by outdated moral constraints but fully embraces life’s challenges.
Nietzsche’s critique of morality challenges traditional values, encouraging self-mastery and creative power. His ideas remain influential in philosophy, psychology, and literature, urging individuals to question society’s moral assumptions and strive for self-overcoming.

I would like to remind participants that, rather than charging for these events, we have introduced voluntary donations with a minimum of £10. Your contribution will help us maintain the frequency and depth of our events as always, while also supporting the extensive preparation and organization required to make them possible.

I kindly ask you to purchase food and drinks from the bar as a way of showing our gratitude to the management for generously allowing us to use their premises. Thank you. Dr. Nash Jocic