NIETZSCHE AND HEIDEGGER: THE TRUTH OF NIHILISM

The aim of this thesis is to understand and articulate the truth of nihilism. Utilizing Heidegger's interpretation of the pre-Socratic notion of truth as unconcealment (aletheia), and utilizing Heidegger's thesis that Nietzsche's notion of nihilism holds within its essence the consummate closure of the whole of Western metaphysics, the primary task of this thesis is to reveal the nature, origin, advent, and end of nihilism in the thought of Nietzsche. The secondary task is to critically reflect upon Heidegger's interpretation of Nietzsche's notion of nihilism in order to ascertain the nature, relevance, and legitimacy of this interpretation.;Chapter Two is a reflection upon the general nature of Nietzsche's notion of nihilism and upon the historical and metaphysical origin of nihilism.;Chapter Three is a reflection upon five essential stages of the advent of nihilism from its origin to its consummate end.;Chapter Four is a reflection upon the ecstatic end and overcoming of nihilism in the thought of Nietzsche. Here, the question of how Nietzsche understands the self-overcoming of nihilism is addressed.;Chapter One attempts to show the connection between the essence of our present epoch and the essence of nihilism.;Chapter Five shows to what extent Heidegger's interpretation of Nietzsche's notion of nihilism was utilized in Chapters Two, Three, and Four. In order to gain a more comprehensive, accurate, and clear perspective into Heidegger's interpretation of Nietzsche's notion of nihilism, the first part of this chapter is a critical and constructive reflection upon some of the most essential books and articles on Heidegger's interpretation of Nietzsche in general, and on Heidegger's interpretation of Nietzsche's notion of nihilism in particular. Part two is a de-constructive reflection upon Heidegger's essay, "Nietzsche's Word: 'God is Dead.'" Here, an attempt is made to understand the nature, relevance, and legitimacy of Heidegger's interpretation of Nietzsche's notion of nihilism. Out of this reflection, an attempt is made to reveal the truth (aletheia) of nihilism in the thought of both Nietzsche and Heidegger.