In this new interpretation of Nietzsche's thought, Daniel Ahern examines Nietzsche's understanding of physiology and argues that Nietzsche saw himself in the role of a ''physician'' of culture. Through what he calls Nietzsche's ''clinical standpoint,'' Ahern describes Nietzsche's views on the history of Western culture in terms of the ''physiological dynamics'' of exhaustion, decadence, sickness, and health. This physiology is a simultaneous interpretation of the will to power and constitutes both Nietzsche's ''diagnoses'' of the ''spiritual'' sickness of modern nihilism and its possible cure.

To describe how ''spirit'' can be both a force of degeneration and vitality, Ahern studies Nietzsche's perception of the history and culture of both the ancient Greeks and Jews. In doing so, he provides a sound textual basis for confronting the potentially inflammatory aspects of Nietzsche's little discussed cultural criticism.

This book marks the first serious exploration of Nietzsche's diagnosis and prognosis for modernity and of the centrality to Nietzsche's thought of his conception of himself as a physician of culture.

About the Author

Daniel R. Ahern is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of New Brunswick, St. John campus.

Book Information
ISBN 9780271030500
Author Daniel R. Ahern
Format Paperback
Page Count 224
Imprint Pennsylvania State University Press
Publisher Pennsylvania State University Press
Weight(grams) 494g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 16mm