Nietzsche and Postmodernism

Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) has exerted a huge influence on 20th century philosophy and literature - an influence that looks set to continue into the 21st century. Nietzsche questioned what it means for us to live in our modern world. He was an 'ant-philosopher' who expressed grave reservations about the reliability and extent of human knowledge. His radical skepticism disturbs our deepest-held beliefs and values. For these reasons, Nietzsche casts a 'long shadow' on the complex cultural and philosophical phenomenon we now call 'postmodernism'. "Nietzsche and Postmodernism" explains the key ideas of this 'Anti-Christ' philosopher. It then provides a clear account of the central themes of postmodernist thought exemplified by such thinkers as Derrida, Foucault, Lyotard and Rorty, and concludes by asking if Nietzsche can justifiably be called the first great postmodernist.