Nietzschean Defense of Democracy: An Experiment in Postmodern Politics

by Lawrence J. Hatab

"To many, a Nietzschean defense of democracy may seem oxymoronic, but Hatab squarely confronts the staunchly antidemocratic tendencies in Nietzsche's writings and offers a surprisingly convincing critique of them based on other aspects of Nietzsche's thought. All who are indebted to Nietzsche for their postmodernism but troubled by his politics will find this a stimulating and illuminating book". -- Bruce Detwiler Author of Nietzsche and the Politics of Aristocratic Radicalism

Genres: Philosophy

325 pages, Paperback

First published January 4, 1999

Reviews

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This should be on the bookshelf of anyone who is at least marginally interested in political theory. It addresses an important question: Having traded in universal depictions of human nature and the Good for post-modern perspectivism, how can democracy,traditionally buttressed by these old philosophies, be defended? Hatab approaches the question from a Nietzschean angle, though a great depth of knowledge of Nietzche's work is not necessary because lucid summaries are provided by the author. This book actually clarified a lot of stuff concerning Nietzsche outside of a connection with politics in addition to influencing the way I view democracy and other possible political arrangements.

[Tyler Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's rare to see an author apply seemingly abstract philosophy in such a concrete, political manner, but Hatab does it exceedingly well. Not only does he extend Nietzsche's thought into new arenas, Hatab also succeeds in offering us one of the most accessible and coherent introductions to Nietzsche (and Postmodern thought in general) I've ever come across. Nietzschean Defense of Democracy is a creative and clear reading of one of the most interesting philosophers ever.