Influence of Relativism and Nihilism emerged in Nietzsche‟s philosophy through his dethroning of “Truth”: Traces of inertia or inspirations to create?

摘要

Until the 19th century the doctrines “relativism” and “nihilism” are harshly despised among some philosophical arenas such as Platonism, Neo-Platonism, Scholasticism and the Enlightenment Movement. This is because relativism and nihilism undermine the very concept of “Truth”. Relativism is ignored as it is considered to be paradoxical and theoretically indefensible. Nihilism is accused of hindering creation but promoting pessimism. In the 19th century, through the counter-enlightenment movement, relativism and nihilism became pervasive in the philosophical environment. Friedrich Nietzsche is one of the most prominent philosophers who made use of both relativism and nihilism in his philosophy. Hence, although his thoughts are too elusive to be imprisoned in a philosophical doctrine; he is alleged to be a nihilist by some or a relativist by other interpreters.1 As a result of this unfair assertion a negative prejudice is formed against Nietzsche.udIn this extended essay, the intent is to analyze the extent to which relativism and nihilism influence Nietzsche’s philosophy, and how Nietzsche transcends the two concepts and opens up the way to a more creative world. The first section of the essay is the introduction to the concepts of “becoming” and “interpretation”, which have a crucial role in understanding Nietzsche’s philosophy. The second section is in 6 subheadings and is devoted to Nietzsche’s dethroning of “Truth”; his philosophy and its similarities with relativism and nihilism, together with his struggle to overcome these two philosophical doctrines and his inspiring of people to create. The last section is the conclusion.