1/ Just revisiting some of the work of Nietzsche. Friedrich Nietzsche introduced the concept of resentment as central to his critique of morality and human psychology. It’s not just bitterness but a force shaping values and societies.
Comments
Log in with your Bluesky account to leave a comment
2/ He argues that resentment arises in those who feel powerless to challenge or overcome others. Instead of confronting this, they internalise hostility, turning it into a psychological weapon.
3/ Nietzsche contrasts two moral systems. The first is a morality that values strength, pride, and power. The second is born from resentment, it glorifies humility, meekness, and suffering to undermine the powerful.
4/ The weak, unable to take direct revenge, create a moral framework where their suffering is “virtuous” and the power of their oppressors is “evil.” This reframes powerlessness as moral superiority.
5/ In this model, resentment traps people in a cycle of blame, focusing on enemies instead of fostering creativity, self-overcoming, and growth. It stifles strength and vitality.
6/ The call to action here is to embrace a morality rooted in strength, creativity, and self-assertion whilst breaking free from cycles of blame and moral superiority.
7/ In summary, if we are bitter and think someone is to blame for our position in life, we need to at the same time take a long hard look at ourselves in the mirror - we might be staring the problem in the face.
Your post prompted a review of my 1975 university notes: pity needs (defines) the “pitiable” in order to justify its existence: it hates the world, & this view settled below consciousness turns to ressentiment forming perceptions & intentions [Nietzsche & Scheler].
Comments
I love your thread and pity