The Gay Science by Friedrich Nietzsche. Short summary

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A work consisting of 63 epigrams, 383 passages, and 14 poems. In it Nietzsche argues about the essence of evil, the purpose of human existence, the relationship between art and nature, and other issues.

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The work consists of 63 epigrams acting as a prelude. The basis is 383 passages divided into five books. The final part of The Merry Science contains 14 poems, «Songs of Prince Vogelfrei.»

In the first book, Nietzsche argues about the purpose of human existence, which is to do everything to preserve the species. The feeling of love has nothing to do with it, humans are driven by the strongest instinct inherent in the essence of human nature. All negative feelings are also necessary for the stupid economy that allows the preservation of the species.

The philosopher believes that people often lack an intellectual conscience. All those who claim it remain lonely even in crowded cities. Everyone looks at the other and tries to evaluate him, calling him bad or good.

No one is tormented with a sense of shame when he is told that his scales are wrong. Most are not ashamed to believe in a statement and live in accordance with that belief without listening to other arguments.