Nietzschean Zionism

[1] The philosopher's influence on the Zionists can then be thought of as an existential revolution–that is, it focused on the renewal of the Jewish identity, the adoption of aesthetic values, and enhancing the will for life.

[4] The Zionist revolution emphasized that “the new Jews," the concept of which was similar to Nietzsche's “new European man,” should choose to go to Zion or stay in Europe.

He is proud and demonstrates no resentment, seeks to implement no values and morals, and is on a journey of overcoming his old self–Zarathustra had already displayed his ideals.

[3] In Der Judenstaat, Herzl states, “If I wish to substitute a new building for an old one, I must demolish before I construct.” Nietzsche originally in On The Genealogy of Morals states, “If a temple is to be erected, a temple must be destroyed.”[3] Hence, Nietzsche's ideology on a journey toward authenticity may have heavily influenced Herzl in both his novels and personal life.

[3] Since the Jewish population was unable to assimilate and prosper in Europe, Herzl then believed that the Jew could reach authenticity elsewhere, namely in Zion.

[4] The essential drive of the Jewish renaissance was to release the spiritual energy—something that Nietzsche wrote extensively on, believing that conserving the spirit internalizes one's instincts which are then turned against oneself.

[4] Buber's vision emphasized the notion of reconciling the Jewish people to a life of creativeness, happiness, and healthiness.