Writing Homework Help

1.) The morality of the ubermensch is clearly distinct from ‘herd morality,’ as the ubermensch himself has transcended the multitudes. Some readers of Nietzsche have argued that the concept of the ubermensch can be instrumentalized to justify horrific acts committed by those who see themselves as superior to the masses.

Do you agree with that, or do you see a possibility for an understanding of the ubermensch that precludes amoral acts and that cannot be wielded in service of egoistic/narcissistic acts? Incorporate quotes from or references to Thus Spoke Zarathustra in your response.

2.) Nietzsche is recognized as one of the most important philosophers of the 19th century. To what extent do his ideas inform our cultural zeigeist in your experience? Do you think that “God is dead” and the notion of the eternal return, for example, remain relevant in our world? These were revolutionary ideas in Nietzsche’s time–are they more commonplace in our own era?

Use quotes from Nietzsche’s work in constructing your argument.