“There is nothing we like to communicate to others as much as the seal of secrecy together with what lies under it.”
- 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
“There is nothing we like to communicate to others as much as the seal of secrecy together with what lies under it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Friedrich Nietzsche explores the intrigue and power associated with secrecy. He suggests that people are often drawn to secrecy not only because of the mystery it holds, but also because it conveys a sense of exclusive knowledge or privilege. The seal of secrecy represents a hidden, protected boundary that marks something as special or restricted. By sharing that which is behind the seal, people experience a kind of exhilaration—a desire to reveal something that feels important, personal, or forbidden. Nietzsche highlights the attraction we feel to the power of holding or sharing secret knowledge and how this gives us a sense of control, exclusivity, or connection with others.
Historically, Nietzsche often critiqued human tendencies to place value on secrecy or mystery as ways of asserting power and dominance in relationships or societies. He recognized that secrecy could be a form of manipulation, used to control access to knowledge or to create social hierarchies. However, he also acknowledged the emotional satisfaction people derive from possessing secrets or from sharing them in moments of intimacy or trust.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the role that secrecy plays in relationships, social dynamics, and even marketing or media. Whether in personal or professional settings, people often find satisfaction in holding or sharing secrets, whether they are confidential information, gossip, or privileged knowledge. In a world where information is increasingly shared and exposed, Nietzsche’s words remind us that the allure of secrecy still plays a central role in human connection. The act of revealing something that has been kept hidden can create a sense of intimacy or power, while also raising questions about the ethics of secrecy and the responsibilities that come with it.
