Question

What is the difference between master morality and slave morality? - Nietzsche

Answer 1

According to the master-slave dichotomy in the philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche, Master morality weighs actions on good or bad consequences such as classical virtues and vices. Thus, good is always seen as ‘noble’, virtuous and strong. For Nietzsche, the early British culture exemplified master morality as morality was judged based on the utilitarian idea of the usefulness or consequences of one’s actions. On the other hand, slave morality emerges in opposition to master morality and it vilifies its oppressors. As master morality originates in the strong, slave morality originates in the weak. Slave morality as such, is characterized by pessimism and cynicism. While slave morality focuses on good or evil intentions e.g. Christian virtues and vices. Here, values like kindness, humility, and sympathy become predominant criteria for establishing moral principles and values.