The Twilight of the Idols or How to Philosophise with the Hammer by Friedrich Nietzsche
Of The Twilight of the Idols, Nietzsche says in Ecce Homo: “If anyone should desire to obtain a rapid sketch of how everything before my time was standing on its head, he should begin reading me in this book. That which is called ‘Idols’ on the title-page is simply the old truth that has been believed in hitherto. In plain English, The Twilight of the Idols means that the old truth is on its last legs.” Certain it is that, for a rapid survey of the whole of Nietzsche’s doctrine, no book, save perhaps the section entitled “Of Old and New Tables” in Thus Spake Zarathustra, could be of more real value than The Twilight of the Idols. Here Nietzsche is quite at his best. He is ripe for the marvellous feat of the transvaluation of all values. Nowhere is his language – that marvellous weapon which in his hand became at once so supple and so murderous – more forcible and more condensed. Nowhere are his thoughts more profound. But all this does not by any means imply that this book is the easiest of Nietzsche’s works. On the contrary, I very much fear that unless the reader is well prepared, not only in Nietzscheism, but also in the habit of grappling with uncommon and elusive problems, a good deal of the contents of this work will tend rather to confuse than to enlighten him in regard to what Nietzsche actually wishes to make clear in these pages. (Excerpt from A. Ludovici’s Preface)
Latest episodes
Jan 2, 2025 • 12min
00 – Translator’s Preface, Narrator’s Note, Author’s Preface
The podcast offers a fascinating glimpse into Nietzsche's critique of societal norms and established beliefs. It explores the historical context of 'Twilight of the Idols' and Nietzsche's intentions behind it. Listeners are invited to reflect on the necessity of questioning blind idealism and reassessing personal values. Vivid metaphors illustrate the transformative power of introspection, urging engagement with reality and challenging complacency in the face of overwhelming insanity.
10 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 12min
01 – Maxims and Missiles
Delve into profound philosophical insights on existence and self-reliance. Explore the dynamic between human aspirations and societal expectations, especially regarding women's roles and artistic motivations. Reflect on how music and intellect shape perceptions of gender while critiquing historical biases. Additionally, the complexities of human behavior are examined, prompting listeners to consider authenticity and the fine line between moral courage and cowardice. Prepare for an engaging exploration that challenges conventional wisdom!
Dec 31, 2024 • 17min
02 – The Problem of Socrates
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
Dec 30, 2024 • 15min
03 – Reason in Philosophy
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
Dec 29, 2024 • 4min
04 – How the True World Ultimately Became a Fable
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
Dec 28, 2024 • 16min
05 – Morality as the Enemy of Nature
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
Dec 27, 2024 • 27min
06 – The Four Great Errors
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
Dec 26, 2024 • 13min
07 – The Improvers of Mankind
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
Dec 25, 2024 • 21min
08 – Things the Germans Lack
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
Dec 24, 2024 • 36min
09 – Skirmishes in a War with the Age, pt. 1
More great books at LoyalBooks.com
