Single Idea 4505

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 2. Values / f. Altruism]

Full Idea

What does it mean that the welfare of my neighbour ought to possess for me a higher value than my own? But that my neighbour ought to subordinate his welfare to my welfare?

Gist of Idea

How can it be that I should prefer my neighbour to myself, but he should prefer me to himself?

Source

Friedrich Nietzsche (The Will to Power (notebooks) [1888], §269)

Book Reference

Nietzsche,Friedrich: 'The Will to Power', ed/tr. Kaufmann,W /Hollingdate,R [Vintage 1968], p.153


A Reaction

Interestingly, this is Nietzsche using a Kantian tool to criticise Christian morality. He is pointing out a logical inconsistency. It seems to me an excellent question, though Christians could say it is benignly circular. The most benign circle possible.