Can we educate a genius? Deliberations on the margins of the writings of Nietzsche
Can we educate a genius? Deliberations on the margins of the writings of Nietzsche

Summary/Abstract: The article deals with the issue of systemic education. The author asks a classic question ofwhether traditional education systems should concentrate on students with average abilitiesor maybe they should foster the most talented ones. Considerations on this subject are conductedwith regard to the multi-layered thought of Nietzsche, whose position is so invaluablethat in a possible polemic it is situated as an exceptionally radical. Writing down the naturalhistory of mankind, Nietzsche formulates a thesis that the moment of the creation of the firsthuman communities, the moment of the socialisation of man, was extremely unfavourable asfar as man’s strength, ability and creativity are concerned. He presents socialisation, which is partof the education process, as beneficial for the community and detrimental to the individual.This situation in the course of history remains the same, which – after the adoption ofNietzschean assumptions – gives cause to adopt a radical position of those who deem theeducation system unfit to foster outstanding individuals. Nietzsche’s view, in comparison withother views, is so innovative that it considers the inability as genealogically founded. Althoughthe educational system from the point of view of the majority contributes to the emergence ofnew content, ideas or values, it remains inefficient for individuals of genius.

• Details
• Contents