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Essay / Nietzsche's Justice Argument: The Debtor/Creditor...
The system of justice used by Nietzsche, while somewhat cynical, has much merit as a form of justice present in our society. This is demonstrated by the description of the creditor/debtor relationship that exists in our democratic societies and by the process of equalization that occurs there, and furthermore that Nietzsche is right to evaluate justice as such a principle. The problem is most evident in the penal system; however, it is also prevalent in everyday personal relationships as well as political structures. Nietzsche describes the creditor/debtor relationship as a manifestation of guilt present in the individual, which in turn makes him feel that he owes something to another. Because of this relationship, the individual toward whom the guilt is directed assumes the position of creditor; this is how the relationship between creditor and debtor begins. The creditor demands that the debtor suffer in some way partly for his own satisfaction, partly as repayment for the guilt. Although this is not, according to Nietzsche, the original plan, it is nevertheless its current use. Thus, the inclusion of the principle of equalization of suffering is introduced. In order to equalize the debtor's debt and partly as a manifestation of the creditor's power, the creditor punishes the debtor to equalize the balance. After analyzing this, Nietzsche clearly defines this relationship of suffering between creditor and debtor as the major element of justice, intended to achieve moral righteousness. Nietzsche's point of view can be expressed specifically in today's penal system. The creditor/debtor relationship exists to a large extent in criminal behavior and its milieu...... middle of paper ...... to reason that an equalization of powers does indeed lead to justice. Applying Nietzsche's theories of creditor/debtor repayment structures in our modern society, it is evident that an equalization of power exists in all of these scenarios. Firstly, through the application of the law it is evident that sanctions, although sometimes excessive, have an equalizing effect on crime, secondly, through a financial perspective which consists of interest charges fueling the banks' desire for money, which results in the punishment of their customers and finally, through the political perspective in the area of crime. The structure of elected officials requiring the support of voters is an obvious representation of punishment in both democracies and dictatorships. Therefore, Nietzsche's argument for justice is ultimately an equalization of suffering in the debtor/creditor relationship, which is true and evidenced in modern society..