Georges Bataille’s 'On Nietzsche': War, Chance, and the Collapse of Meaning with Stuart Kendall

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Jun 21, 2025

Stuart Kendall, a translator known for his work on Georges Bataille, dives deep into Bataille’s 'On Nietzsche,' a philosophical gem penned during World War II. They discuss how Bataille uses Nietzsche as a companion to navigate themes of sovereignty and death amidst chaos. The conversation touches on existential fragility, the ethics of risk, and the concept of 'The Will to Chance' as a response to societal upheaval. Additionally, the emotional resonance of Bataille's work is examined, shedding light on the intricacies of trauma and human experience.

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INSIGHT

Nature of 'On Nietzsche'

Georges Bataille's book 'On Nietzsche' is a fragmented, heterogenous assemblage mixing diaries, lectures, and philosophical reflections.
It transcends a traditional philosophy book, exploring Nietzsche as a companion amid war and existential crisis.

INSIGHT

From Will to Power to Chance

Bataille uses "will to chance" instead of Nietzsche's "will to power" to embrace uncertainty and non-knowledge.
He aims to move beyond Nietzsche's conceptual philosophy towards a lived experience rejecting utility and mastery.

INSIGHT

Philosophy Amid Catastrophe

Writing philosophy during WWII felt tragically useless but necessary to Bataille.
He predicted massive war and nuclear destruction and wrestled with how to survive intellectually and ethically.

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None

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