On Nietzsche’s Criticism Towards Common Sense Realism in Human, All Too Human I, 11

Abstract

This paper explores Nietzsche’s observations on language in Human, All Too Human I, 11; reflects on the anti-realist position that Nietzsche defends in that aphorism; and focuses on the role she plays in his later investigation on Western culture and its anthropology. As will be argued, Nietzsche’s criticism towards common sense realism is consistent with some pragmatist epistemologies developed during the late-nineteenth and earlytwentieth century. This treat of “timeliness” does not limit Nietzsche’s originality on the topic. In fact, the idea that philosophy can contrast the metaphysical commitment of common sense can be seen as the theoretical tool that allows Nietzsche to operate on the development of European culture and society.