Entanglements:
Journal of Posthumanities
E-ISSN: 3107-488X

Join / Subscribe E-ISSN: 3107-488X

Editor-in-Chief: Sukhendu Das, Bankura University
Executive Editor: Baloram Balo, Doctoral Scholar, University of Kalyani

Click here for more details

(Article)
Getting Over the Human with Friedrich Nietzsche: Twilight of the Transhuman Idols
Authored By — Mark Horvath, Dr. Adam Lovasz

Abstract

Stefan Lorenz Sorgner has argued against Nick Bostrom that the "Overhuman" (Übermensch) of Friedrich Nietzsche counts as a genuine predecessor of both posthumanism and transhumanism. In a reply article, Michael Hauskeller argues that the transhumanist vision does not accord with the Nietzschean Overhuman. While the two share similarities, they are distinct, for Nietzsche did not believe in Enlightenment ideas of liberalism, progress and scientism. Futurologically-informed transhumanist ideas relating to human "enhancement" are too modern and progressive to be Nietzschean. Babette Babich claims that transhumanism constitutes an "all-too-human" position. We conclude that Nietzsche was not a transhumanist, because, on the whole, the overhuman is more a tragic hero who affirms eternal recurrence and deifies Nature, and is not a technocratic denier of nature. It is high time we got over the "human" element altogether.

Keywords

Humanism, Nietzsche, Posthumanism, Speculative Posthumanism, Transhumanism
We value your privacy. We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised ads or content, and analyse our traffic. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our Privacy & Cookie Policy.
Accept