“Hope in reality is the worst of all evils because it prolongs the torments of man.”
Friedrich Nietzsche
Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) was a German philosopher, cultural critic, and poet. He is known for his works on morality, religion, culture, and the human condition. Nietzsche’s philosophy is often characterized as a critique of traditional values and beliefs, and an exploration of the human potential for creativity and self-realization.
Some of his most famous works include “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” “Beyond Good and Evil,” and “The Genealogy of Morals.” In these works, Nietzsche proposed new ideas and concepts that challenged the prevailing beliefs and values of his time. He argued for the need to create new values and a new morality that would enable individuals to achieve their full potential and live fulfilling lives.
Nietzsche’s ideas have had a profound impact on modern philosophy, literature, and culture. His influence can be seen in the work of many notable thinkers and writers, including Martin Heidegger, Michel Foucault, and Jean-Paul Sartre, among others. Despite his lasting impact, Nietzsche’s work was not fully appreciated during his lifetime, and he suffered from mental and physical illness that ultimately led to his death at the age of 55.
The quote means that in some cases, having hope can actually be worse than not having hope at all. When a person is facing a difficult situation or problem, hope can prolong the pain and suffering by keeping them focused on a desired outcome that may never materialize. In this way, hope can lead to disappointment, frustration, and even despair.
Nietzsche believed that it is better to face reality as it is, without hope or false expectations, so that one can accept the situation and move on. He thought that by accepting reality as it is, one can find the inner strength to face challenges and overcome obstacles without being held back by false hope.
Overall, the quote suggests that hope can be a double-edged sword and that sometimes it can be better to face reality without it in order to minimize suffering and find a path forward.
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That’s so true! Embracing reality is much more empowering because it allows you to move on and choose a more suitable path.
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Thank you for you comment Sara. Friedrich Nietzsche is a difficult read but well worth the effort.
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I agree with this statement whole heartedly.
My son was due to have surgery, but cause my son had covid and his heart was badly affected and he was put in palliative care.
I had to learn how to live with the idea of losing him, I lost all hope.
Having a 50/50 chance of him being able to withstand surgery and then being told he didn’t after having covid.
I nearly killed my self. Cause i lost all hope in everything.
So hope to me is something I don’t want or need. I want facts and evidence to prove to myself that it will be ok.
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What a moving story Vivika and thank you for sharing. I hope things are better for you now.
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My lovely son is still here, he has recovered from complications from covid and been moved back on to the surgery list.
We are now waiting to see if the anaesthetist will accept his case again.
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