“Character is determined more by the lack of certain experiences than by those one has had.”
- 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
“Character is determined more by the lack of certain experiences than by those one has had.”
Explanation
In this quote, Friedrich Nietzsche suggests that character is shaped not just by the experiences we go through, but by the experiences we lack—the ones we do not encounter or the opportunities we avoid. Nietzsche believes that what we miss or don’t experience in life can play a more significant role in shaping our personality and values than the experiences we actively seek out or undergo. Certain absences or missed opportunities, whether they involve suffering, joy, or failure, influence the way we react to the world, the choices we make, and how we ultimately define ourselves. In this view, it’s not just the accumulation of experiences that matter, but how we navigate the gaps or voids in our lives, which can often contribute to strength, resilience, or wisdom.
Historically, Nietzsche critiqued the conventional wisdom that emphasizes accumulation—whether it be in terms of knowledge, wealth, or experience—believing instead that true character and growth often arise from what is lacking or what is missed in life. For example, he thought that overprotection or a lack of hardship could lead to weak or shallow character. Conversely, individuals who faced adversity, deprivation, or missed opportunities might develop deeper strength and a more resilient nature as a result of having to navigate the absence of things that others take for granted.
In modern contexts, this quote encourages us to think about what we lack in our lives—whether it’s personal challenges, difficult conversations, or experiences outside our comfort zones. It suggests that our character may not only be influenced by the things we choose to pursue, but also by the experiences we don’t have or avoid. For example, someone who has not faced failure may be less empowered or grounded than someone who has learned to cope with loss or struggle. Nietzsche’s words remind us to consider how absence, neglect, or unrealized desires can also shape who we are, highlighting that personal growth and character development often come from navigating the unseen, the unsaid, or the unexperienced.
