Authenticity in the Philosophy of Nietzsche

Abstract

There is, as we have seen, a negative side to the philosophy of Nietzsche. It consists, for the most part, in a critique of Weltanschauungen and, in particular, of the Christian world view. Nietzsche’s thought also has a positive aspect, however, for his primary philosophic concern is not merely to proclaim his atheism but to erect an existential ethic on the basis of a death of God position.¹ This section will be devoted to a consideration of the nature and origin of that ethic which left such a deep impression on the young Camus. While it is the product of Nietzsche’s mature philosophy, it has its roots in The Birth of Tragedy.