Die Überkinder: Nietzsche and Greta Thunberg, children and philosophy

Abstract

Does Nietzsche imagine that an Überkind could prepare the path for an Übermensch? Linking Nietzsche to Greta Thunberg through their mutual concern about life's future, this essay reviews Nietzsche's 1871 through 1888 research on preparing children for a task demanding nearly superhuman powers: guaranteeing life's future against human irrationality's assaults.Rather than offering a historical analysis, the essay views his remarks as promptings for developing a curriculum for philosophy's engagement with children. The essay presents foundational principles for a curriculum for children that addresses current existential crises by promoting creativity's role in that curriculum. The conclusion summarises Nietzsche's vision of philosophy's future.