The Values of the Übermensch - INDEPENDENCE
Independence is the most overlapping value in Nietzsche’s philosophy. It ties into everything else. It’s the cornerstone of the whole Übermensch concept and also a topic that appears in most of his books.
Although being independent is today more “trendy” and “vogue” than ever before, existence without limitations or restrictions is something the human animal was always hungry for. It’s actually what makes us human in the first place.
Unlike many other species we are not completely dependent on our instincts. Consciousness makes us both less dependent and more hungry for even greater levels of independence.
Nietzsche saw Independence as a very rare human trait and state of being that only very few people actually achieve. As he says:
“Independence is for the very few; it is a privilege of the strong. And whoever attempts it even with the best right but without inner constraint proves that he is probably not only strong, but also daring to the point of recklessness.”
- F. Nietzsche
As the quote points out, independence goes hand in hand also with another very important value - courage.
Without the ability to face fear, stand your ground or break limitations, no independence can be achieved. Independence, like fortune, is a woman. And as you might know from any fairytale, myth or story you ever read - women love the courageous ones.
The thing about freedom (which can be used interchangeably with independence) is that it’s not given, but EARNED.
As Americans say “Freedom isn’t free.” Countless of great wars in human history were led on the account of gaining independence and your inner personal war is no different.
Following are TOP 3 Nietzsche’s quotes for a more Independent mindset:
"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."
"Become who you are."
"The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself.”
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