Central Michigan University Two Types of Morality Discussion

OK, we’re looking at a different perspective this week. Nietzsche is a controversial figure, and Sartre is the most well known existentialist. The views we’re looking at here aren’t quite ethical theories, but they’re quite interesting and influential nonetheless.

I want you to choose either Nietzsche or Sartre for your discussion this week.

If you choose Nietzsche, I want you to discuss his claims about slave and master morality. What are the differences between these? What is the Will to Power about? Do you think he’s right that morality does have this separation and that we should reject slave morality? Is he right that we’re all ruled by the Will to Power? Is he right that humanity is doomed if we do not embrace the need for strong, powerful masters?

If you choose to discuss Sartre, I want you to talk about existence preceding essence. What does that mean, and why is it important for existentialism? What about Sartre’s claim that we’re “condemned to be free?” Do you agree with his assessment? What does Bad Faith mean? Can you think of some examples? How does God come into play for Sartre?