Character Quote by Brian Leiter
““Even though there is neither much altruism nor equality in the world, there is almost universal endorsement of the values of altruism and equality - even, notoriously (and as Nietzsche seemed well aware), by those who are its worst enemies in practice. So Nietzsche's critique is that a culture in the grips of MPS [Morality in the Pejorative Sense], even without acting on MPS, poses the real obstacle to flourishing, because it teaches potential higher types to disvalue what would be most conductive to their creativity and value what is irrelevant or perhaps even hostile to it.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Nietzsche on Morality, 2021
Nietzsche argues that society praises altruism and equality even when they hinder higher individuals, creating a cultural obstacle to true flourishing.
In simple terms: Society praises values that may suppress exceptional creativity.
Key Takeaway
Question cultural norms that limit greatness.
Themes
morality
creativity
culture
philosophy
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- artistic development
- leadership training
Key Concepts
Nietzschean critique
MPS concept
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance societal values with fostering exceptional talent?
- Can true flourishing exist under prevailing moral expectations?
A Different Perspective
Even praised values, they may stifle exceptional individuals.
![“We believe, as Nietzsche put it, that 'higher is not allowed to grow out of the lower, is not allowed to have grown at all .. everything first-rate must be causa sui [the cause of itself].” quote by Alain de Botton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e46/alain-de-botton-221_nietzsche_we-believe-as-nietzsche-put-it-that-high_56367.jpg)
