Does Nietzsche have a coherent view of truth?

Masters thesis


Fitzmaurice, T. 2001. Does Nietzsche have a coherent view of truth? Masters thesis Middlesex University School of Humanities and Cultural Studies
TypeMasters thesis
TitleDoes Nietzsche have a coherent view of truth?
AuthorsFitzmaurice, T.
Abstract

Anyone intending to write about Nietzsche faces an immediate problem - How is one to interpret him? I tackle this methodological issue in my first Chapter and set out the various modes of interpretation usually adopted. I also discuss the status of the Nachlass and indicate a personal position with regard to the use of these unpublished notes.
In Chapter 2 I focus on whether Nietzsche does have a theory of truth. Early on he claims that truth is an illusion, but I argue that this position is untenable. Some American commentators attribute a pragmatic theory of truth to Nietzsche, but the textual evidence for this is lacking. As for the Coherence Theory, Nietzsche would only have accepted this if he espoused subjective idealism. He clearly rejects all forms of idealism. He was also firmly opposed to the Metaphysical Correspondence Theory. However, there is some evidence that he would have accepted a more conventional view of truth.
My third Chapter is more psychological, focusing on motivation. Will to Power is the central concept here and I analyse this in detail. It turns out to be a Janus-faced concept. Internal Will to Power gets linked to asceticism and the Will to Truth, whilst external Will to Power is tied to the creation of values.
The final Chapter is really a defence of objectivity. Perspectivism is frequently misinterpreted by Continental thinkers. I try to combat their relativistic readings and argue for a mature perspectivism. The latter does not entail a rejection of truth as commonsensically understood.
My Conclusion is that Nietzsche is seeking to establish a more elaborate view of belief which acknowledges the body as a primary source of motivation.

Research GroupLaw and Politics
Department nameSchool of Humanities and Cultural Studies
Institution nameMiddlesex University
Publication dates
Print22 Jul 2013
Publication process dates
Deposited22 Jul 2013
CompletedApr 2001
Output statusPublished
Accepted author manuscript
Additional information

This thesis is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy.

LanguageEnglish
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