“All sciences are now under the obligation to prepare the ground for the future task of the philosopher, which is to solve the problem of value, to determine the true hierarchy of values.”
- October 15, 1844 – August 25, 1900
- Born in Germany
- Philosopher, poet, and classical philologist
- With works such as “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” “Beyond Good and Evil,” and “The Genealogy of Morals,” he questioned traditional morality, religion, and truth, and had a major impact on modern philosophy.
Quote
“All sciences are now under the obligation to prepare the ground for the future task of the philosopher, which is to solve the problem of value, to determine the true hierarchy of values.”
Explanation
In this quote, Friedrich Nietzsche argues that the purpose of the sciences is not only to expand knowledge but also to lay the foundation for philosophy to address deeper questions about value and morality. Nietzsche believes that the task of the philosopher is to determine the true hierarchy of values—to understand what is truly important in life and how different values relate to one another. This philosophical task goes beyond mere intellectual pursuit; it is about assessing and redefining the very principles that guide human life. In Nietzsche’s view, the sciences provide the facts and data, but the philosopher’s role is to interpret these facts through a moral and existential lens, helping humanity to navigate and understand the true meaning behind these values.
Historically, this statement aligns with Nietzsche’s critique of traditional moral systems, particularly those rooted in Christianity or metaphysical philosophy, which he believed were inadequate in addressing the evolving complexities of human life. He argued that philosophy needed to take a central role in rethinking values, especially in a world increasingly shaped by scientific knowledge and technological progress. Nietzsche viewed the task of determining the “true hierarchy of values” as crucial for the future, believing that the values governing society had become outdated and needed to be re-evaluated for modern life.
In contemporary times, this quote can be applied to the growing intersection between science, ethics, and philosophy. As advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, genetics, and climate science present new challenges and questions, it is the role of philosophy to help us navigate these issues in terms of human value and morality. For instance, as we explore new technologies and their potential impacts on society, we need philosophical guidance to determine the ethical implications of these developments. Nietzsche’s quote calls for a re-examination of our core beliefs, urging the sciences and philosophy to work together to define the values that will guide our future.
