Introduction

Relevance of the theme

Exploring the thoughts of Karl Marx and Friedrich Nietzsche is delving into the depths of two of the most influential philosophies that shaped the modern worldview. Both thinkers, with distinct and often antagonistic worldviews, offer a vital counterpoint to understand the political, social, and ethical contours that emerged in the 19th century and continue to reverberate to this day. Marx, with his scathing critique of capitalism and his vision of a classless society, provides the tools to understand the economic and social relations in an era of industrial transformation and political revolutions. Nietzsche, advocate of individual power and critic of conventional morality, helps navigate the stormy seas of existentialism and the crisis of values that characterize modernity. Understanding these philosophers is, therefore, not only an intellectual journey but also a critical instrument that empowers individuals to question the power structures and values that guide their lives.

Contextualization

In the scope of Philosophy for 2nd-year High School students, the study of Marx and Nietzsche is situated within the module dedicated to understanding modern and contemporary philosophical currents. This approach intertwines with issues of ethics, politics, and epistemology, and is essential for students to recognize the impact of these philosophies on the shaping of ideologies and the functioning of current societies. The dialogue between Marxism and Nihilism, between class struggle and the overcoming of nihilism through the 'Übermensch,' offers a unique panorama of the different paths that humanity can tread in the face of adversities and transformations. Within the Philosophy curriculum, this study deepens the critical capacity of students, fostering the understanding that philosophical ideas are not mere artifacts of the past, but living forces that continuously shape the fabric of history and culture.

Theory

Examples and cases

Imagine the scenario of the Industrial Revolution, with emerging factories, the working class facing long hours under inhuman conditions, and the bourgeoisie accumulating wealth. This is the context in which Marx's theory emerges, shedding light on the inequities of capitalism and proposing a restructuring of society. On the other hand, let's visualize a post-Enlightenment Europe immersed in moral crises, where Nietzsche unveils the 'death of God' and the consequent need for the individual to create their own values. These scenarios are not mere historical reconstructions; they are reflected in contemporary social movements, discussions on ethics in capitalism, and in the incessant human quest for meaning in a postmodern world.

Components

Historical Materialism

Within Marx's theoretical framework, Historical Materialism emerges as a method to understand the social, economic, and political structures. This component describes human history as a series of class conflicts, where a society's economic infrastructure (base) determines its superstructure (political and legal institutions, worldviews, etc.). The relations of production, the means of production, and the division of labor are fundamental concepts in this panorama. The superstructure arises to stabilize and legitimize the base, forming an interactive complex between the productive forces and social relations. Studying Historical Materialism is understanding how, according to Marx, the economy shapes history. Revolutions occur when the productive forces become incompatible with the existing relations of production, promoting the emergence of a new ruling class. The Marxist dialectic, heir to Hegelian philosophy, is not based on spirit or ideas, but on concrete material conditions.

Will to Power and the Übermensch

For Nietzsche, the 'will to power' is the fundamental driving force of life, an incessant aspiration to affirm and expand one's influence and dominion. This concept is key to understanding Nietzschean thought, which longs to go beyond mere survival or pleasure. By relating the will to power to the individual, Nietzsche establishes a profound critique of Christianity and conventional morality, which, according to him, suppress the expression of this vital will. His proposal to overcome moral and cultural decadence is the figure of the 'Übermensch' or Superman, a being who transcends archaic moralities and establishes their own values, operating on a higher scale of existence. The Übermensch is an ideal, a horizon for human development free from the shackles of structures rooted in weakness. It is a vision that challenges each individual to become a creative force of meaning in a universe devoid of intrinsic order. The figure of the Übermensch persists as an ethical and existential challenge, stimulating debates on individual autonomy and the shaping of meritocratic societies.

Deepening the theme

Delving into Marxist theory involves evaluating how surplus value and worker alienation are intrinsic to the capitalist system, perpetuating a dynamic of exploitation and inequality. At the same time, examining Nietzsche requires a critical analysis of the genealogy of morality and how inherited values are questioned by the individual seeking authenticity. Both philosophers understand reality from different prisms, with Marx emphasizing the influence of material conditions on consciousness and Nietzsche exploring the psychological and cultural aspects that shape human experience.

Key terms

Historical Materialism: Analytical method developed by Marx that considers economic conditions as determinants in the formation of history and social relations. Surplus Value: Marxist concept describing the profit generated by the worker's labor that exceeds the value of their labor power and is appropriated by the capitalist. Alienation: Process by which workers are separated from the product of their labor, becoming estranged from their own productive essence. Will to Power: Nietzschean idea postulating a vital force driving living beings to maximize their influence and dominion. Übermensch (Superman): Ideal proposed by Nietzsche, referring to a person who transcends common morality and creates new values grounded in the affirmation of life.

Practice

Reflection on the theme

By examining the works and theories of Karl Marx and Friedrich Nietzsche, we are invited to reflect on the inherent tensions and contradictions in the human condition and society. How can the concepts of class struggle and worker alienation still find resonance in our current economic realities? In what ways does the will to power manifest in contemporary dynamics of power and influence? These questions prompt students to think critically about concrete examples of the impact and persistence of Marx and Nietzsche's ideas in modern society.

Introductory exercises

Develop a brief essay exploring how Marx's concept of surplus value can be identified in the gig economy and modern freelance work.

Elaborate a comparative analysis between Marx and Nietzsche's views on religion and its role in society.

Investigate a contemporary social movement and discuss how it reflects or challenges the theories of Historical Materialism.

Create an imaginary dialogue between Marx and Nietzsche on the theme of individual freedom versus collectivity.

Projects and Research

Develop a research project that involves the identification and analysis of a contemporary social issue — such as income disparity, the social justice movement, or the role of technology in society — through the lenses of Marxist and Nietzschean theories. Consider both the economic and class aspects as well as the ethical and cultural dimensions. Present your findings in a multimedia format, such as a video documentary, a narrative slide presentation, or an interactive website.

Expanding

Beyond the main body of their works, the influence of Marx and Nietzsche extends to various fields of knowledge. In literature, for example, Marxist criticism offers a tool to analyze texts in light of the economic conditions of their production, while Nietzsche's philosophy has inspired numerous writers to explore themes of power, morality, and the human condition. In cinema, Marxist dialectics inform narratives about class conflicts and revolutions, and Nietzsche's nihilism is often addressed in characters seeking meaning in a chaotic world. Such connections enrich students' understanding of how philosophy permeates and is interpreted in contemporary cultural expressions.

Conclusion

Conclusions

Immersing ourselves in the thoughts of Marx and Nietzsche allows us to unearth the foundations on which modernity rests. Through Historical Materialism, Marx not only unveiled the gears of capitalism but also challenged humanity to envision a society emancipated from the chains of class exploitation. His analysis reveals the continuous presence of class tensions in society and the importance of confronting the economic structures that perpetuate inequalities. Surplus value and worker alienation, central Marxist concepts, are as relevant today as in the 19th century, reflected in new forms of work and the growing disparity between capital and labor. On the other hand, Nietzsche's philosophy, centered on the will to power and the idea of the 'Übermensch,' stands as a call to the individual for an authentic and self-determined existence. His thought resonates in the contemporary struggle against inherited social norms and in the reaffirmation of individualism in a post-structuralist world. Nietzsche's legacy instigates questioning of prevailing morality and promotes reflection on the construction of values in an era marked by uncertainties.

Although Marx and Nietzsche present distinct and even antagonistic worldviews, both substantially contribute to the philosophical and social discourse, stimulating criticism of established structures and conformity. Marxist thought calls for an analysis of power relations and inequality from a collective perspective, while Nietzschean philosophy values individual transcendence and the redefinition of values. Integrating these philosophies into philosophical education not only broadens students' historical and theoretical understanding but also equips them critically to actively participate in society and in the continuous reshaping of the social fabric.

In conclusion, the exploration of Marx and Nietzsche is more than an academic study; it is an invitation to confront fundamental questions of existence and social structure. In the 21st century, the echo of their ideas is perceived in debates about the nature of work, social justice, political power, and in the incessant search for meaning and value in an increasingly complex world. Thus, by mastering these philosophical theories, one gains not only knowledge but also a critical arsenal to navigate and shape the dilemmas of the contemporary world.