Nietzsche, Heidegger, and the Return of the Far Right

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The Influence of Nietzsche and Heidegger on the Resurgence of Far Right Ideologies

Despite living in different eras, Friedrich Nietzsche and Martin Heidegger are two philosophers whose ideas have had a profound impact on the contemporary political landscape. Both philosophers' works have been utilized by far right movements, leading to a resurgence in nationalist sentiments and the rise of populist leaders. This article delves into the connection between Nietzsche, Heidegger, and the return of the far right.

Dangerous Minds: Nietzsche, Heidegger, and the Return of the Far Right

by Iris Berent (Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
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The Philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche

Friedrich Nietzsche, a German philosopher of the 19th century, is known for his critical and revolutionary ideas. Nietzsche's philosophy challenged traditional values, morality, and religion, advocating for the affirmation of life and the pursuit of individual greatness. His concepts of the "will to power" and the "Übermensch" (superman) have resonated with far right thinkers who emphasize the superiority of certain races or nations.

However, it is essential to note that Nietzsche himself vehemently opposed the misappropriation of his ideas by far right movements. He critiqued nationalism, anti-Semitism, and the idea of a master race, which contradicts the beliefs of far right ideologies. Nietzsche's complex and nuanced philosophy has been oversimplified and misinterpreted, leading to the distortion of his ideas by extremist groups.

The Heideggerian Approach

Martin Heidegger, a German philosopher of the 20th century, is another influential figure whose ideas have been twisted by far right thinkers. Heidegger's concept of "Dasein," referring to the subjective existence of an individual, has been co-opted to promote a particularistic and exclusionary view of society. Far right movements exploit this concept to justify their focus on ethnic or national identity.

However, it is crucial to highlight that Heidegger's philosophy goes beyond these narrow interpretations. His works analyze the nature of truth, language, and being, striving for a more profound understanding of human existence. The selective adoption of Heidegger's ideas by the far right fails to grasp the complexity and depth of his thoughts.

The Far Right and its Misinterpretation of Philosophy

The far right movement's exploitation of Nietzsche and Heidegger's works occurs due to a combination of misinterpretation, selective quoting, and deliberate misrepresentation. These philosophers' criticisms of modernity and emphasis on individuality have been appropriated to fuel xenophobia, ultra-nationalism, and ethnocentrism. However, a comprehensive analysis of their writings reveals a more nuanced and complex set of ideas.

The far right's misuse of philosophy is not limited to Nietzsche and Heidegger. Similar misappropriation can be observed in the ideas of other prominent intellectuals, including Carl Schmitt, Oswald Spengler, and Julius Evola. Their writings have been utilized to legitimize far right ideologies and provide a veneer of intellectualism to nationalist movements.

The Lessons to be Learned

The resurgence of far right ideologies poses a threat to democratic values, social cohesion, and cultural diversity. In order to counter these movements effectively, it is crucial to understand the philosophers who have influenced their thinking. Nietzsche and Heidegger's ideas should not be wholly rejected due to their misappropriation but thoroughly studied and critiqued.

Moreover, it is essential to promote critical thinking, intellectual discernment, and ethical responsibility in society. By fostering an environment where rigorous analysis and healthy debate are encouraged, we can prevent extremist ideologies from gaining popularity. The solution lies in education, tolerance, and a commitment to democratic principles.

Nietzsche and Heidegger, two influential philosophers from different periods, have seen their ideas distorted and misused by far right movements. The misinterpretation of their philosophies has facilitated the resurgence of nationalist sentiments and the rise of populist leaders. However, by comprehensively understanding and critiquing their works, fostering critical thinking, and promoting democratic values, we can mitigate the impact of far right ideologies and ensure a more inclusive and tolerant society.

Written by [Your Name]

Dangerous Minds: Nietzsche, Heidegger, and the Return of the Far Right

by Iris Berent (Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5076 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	175 pages

FREE

Following the fall of the Berlin Wall and demise of the Soviet Union, prominent Western thinkers began to suggest that liberal democracy had triumphed decisively on the world stage. Having banished fascism in World War II, liberalism had now buried communism, and the result would be an end of major ideological conflicts, as liberal norms and institutions spread to every corner of the globe. With the Brexit vote in Great Britain, the resurgence of right-wing populist parties across the European continent, and the surprising ascent of Donald Trump to the American presidency, such hopes have begun to seem hopelessly naïve. The far right is back, and serious rethinking is in order.

In Dangerous Minds, Ronald Beiner traces the deepest philosophical roots of such right-wing ideologues as Richard Spencer, Aleksandr Dugin, and Steve Bannon to the writings of Nietzsche and Heidegger—and specifically to the aspects of their thought that express revulsion for the liberal-democratic view of life. Beiner contends that Nietzsche's hatred and critique of bourgeois, egalitarian societies has engendered new disciples on the populist right who threaten to overturn the modern liberal consensus. Heidegger, no less than Nietzsche, thoroughly rejected the moral and political values that arose during the Enlightenment and came to power in the wake of the French Revolution. Understanding Heideggerian dissatisfaction with modernity, and how it functions as a philosophical magnet for those most profoundly alienated from the reigning liberal-democratic order, Beiner argues, will give us insight into the recent and unexpected return of the far right.

Beiner does not deny that Nietzsche and Heidegger are important thinkers; nor does he seek to expel them from the history of philosophy. But he does advocate that we rigorously engage with their influential thought in light of current events—and he suggests that we place their severe critique of modern liberal ideals at the center of this engagement.