Übermensch
Nietzsche's ideal of the self-overcoming human who creates their own values.
Also known as: Overman, Superman, Higher human
Category: Concepts
Tags: philosophies, nietzsche, wisdom, self-transcendence, values
Explanation
The Übermensch (often translated as 'Overman' or 'Superman') is Nietzsche's vision of a higher type of human who overcomes the limitations of conventional humanity. Key characteristics include: creates own values (rather than accepting inherited morality), embraces life fully (including suffering), overcomes the 'human, all too human,' and represents the 'meaning of the earth.' The Übermensch is not: a superhero or biological superior, a cruel dominator, or a racial type. Rather, it's an ideal of: self-creation and self-overcoming, living beyond slave/master morality, and finding meaning through creative expression. The concept responds to nihilism - if traditional values collapse, the Übermensch creates new values. It represents: the potential for human self-transcendence, taking responsibility for meaning-creation, and life affirmation despite suffering. For knowledge workers, the Übermensch suggests: questioning inherited assumptions, taking responsibility for values, creating meaning through work, and continual self-overcoming rather than mere success.
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