A Dutch Response to Nihilism: an Evaluation of K.H. Miskotte's Interaction with Nietzsche

Author: Ad Prosman,

Source: Journal of Reformed Theology, Volume 2, Number 2, 2008 , pp. 151-167(17)

Publisher: BRILL

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Abstract:

This article discusses the way in which the Dutch theologian K.H. Miskotte interpreted the nihilism of Friedrich Nietzsche. It will be pointed out that religion is the central notion of Miskotte's approach of Nietzsche. Discussing this theme, it will be necessary to pay attention to the concept of Nietzsche's nihilism. From there we receive a clearer insight in the interaction between Miskotte and Nietzsche. It is expected that examining nihilism and the interaction with nihilism will be helpful to contextualize theology. The method of Miskotte is attractive because he does not evaluate nihilism in a philosophical manner, but he counters it by the Thora. Belief stands against belief. Nevertheless we can ask whether Miskotte's concept of religion is adequate enough to tackle the problems we have to deal with in our nihilistic culture. Is Miskotte right when he connects nihilism and religion, and what kind of religion is he connecting with nihilism?

Keywords: NIETZSCHE; MISKOTTE; NIHILISM; THEOLOGY; WESTERN CULTURE

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/156973108X306236

Affiliations: 1: Minister; Protestant Church in the Netherlands;, Email: aprosman@solcon.nl

Publication date: 2008-05-01