A Comparative Analysis of Nietzsche’s and Motahari’s Political Thought with an Emphasis on Their Anthropological Foundations

Abstract

The aim of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of Nietzsche’s and Motahari’s political thought, focusing on their anthropological foundations. The political philosophies of Nietzsche and Motahari, as two prominent philosophers of the Western and Eastern worlds, are deeply rooted in their respective perspectives and interpretations of the concept of "human." Both philosophers seek the growth and elevation of humanity and assert that humans must transcend their current state and achieve perfection. However, their interpretations of human perfection diverge significantly. The findings of the study reveal that Nietzsche adopts an anti-Christian, power-driven perspective on humanity. He argues that religion is a construct of delusional, weak, and fearful individuals aimed at diminishing the power of the strong. In contrast, Motahari espouses a religious and felicity-oriented view of humanity. He believes that Islam forms the foundation of governance, emphasizing collective religious principles as articulated in the Quran. According to Motahari, human rights are equal in society, and no one is permitted to violate the rights of others or exploit them for personal gain in the pursuit of power. Governance, he argues, belongs exclusively to those who possess divine legitimacy, public acceptance, and have attained the pinnacle of human virtues and moral excellence. Political power is thus achieved through these means, and all individuals are obligated to follow such a leader.