On the Genealogy of Morality

Summary

«On the Genealogy of Morality» by Friedrich Nietzsche is a philosophical investigation in which the author analyzes the origins and development of moral values. Nietzsche views morality as a historically evolved phenomenon that emerged from the struggle of various social forces. He distinguishes between two types of morality: master morality and slave morality. Master morality is associated with aristocratic values such as strength, pride, and nobility, while slave morality is based on qualities like humility, compassion, and submission. Nietzsche argues that slave morality arose as a reaction to the dominant morality and became prevalent in Christian culture. He also criticizes traditional moral values, considering them manifestations of weakness and decline. In the book, Nietzsche explores concepts of guilt, conscience, and asceticism, proposing a radical reevaluation of the moral foundations of Western civilization.