Beyond reality

Nietzsche's science of appearances

Stephen Gaukroger

pp. 37-49

in: Babette Babich (ed), Nietzsche, theories of knowledge, and critical theory I, Berlin, Springer, 1999

Abstract

Are we obliged to see science in terms of uncovering the reality under the appearances? Nietzsche's criticisms of science are distinctive in that, unlike some of his contemporaries and predecessors, who were content to lament the ascendancy of science over theology or literature, his attack is effectively one on a scientific rationality that takes its starting-point and rationale from early Greek metaphysics. This metaphysics is one in which the central question is that of distinguishing appearance and reality, science simply being that most recent form of enquiry that has laid claim to a monopoly to the successful realisation of this metaphysics. But although he does sometimes seem to question the monopoly of science in this respect, the main thrust of Nietzsche's argument is against a much deeper target, the metaphysics of "reality" and "truth" underlying scientific rationality.

Cited authors

Nietzsche Friedrich