An Introduction to Nietzsche as Political Thinker: The Perfect Nihilist

This is a lively and engaging introduction to the contentious topic of Nietzsche's political thought for all students of philosophy, political theory and the history of ideas. Keith Ansell-Pearson traces the development of Nietzsche's thinking on the fate of modern politics from his earliest writings, including the little known essay “The Greek State,” to the mature writings in which he advocates the aristocratic radicalism of 'great politics' in opposition to the 'petty' politics of European nationalism. All the key ideas in Nietzsche's philosophy are discussed, including the will to power, eternal return, and the overman. They are examined as part of Nietzsche's wider philosophy, and also situated in the context of modern political theory. The opening chapters consider how Nietzsche is to be read and deal directly with the question of Nietzsche's appropriation by the Nazis. Nietzsche's major works, The Birth of Tragedy, Thus spoke Zarathustra, and The genealogy of morals are analyzed in detail, and their common themes unravelled. The book concludes with an assessment of Nietzsche's enduring relevance and of the insights afforded by contemporary liberal and feminist readings of his work.