Walter Kaufmann (author)

Walter Kaufmann (1921-1980) was a German-American philosopher, translator, and professor. He is best known for his writings on existentialism, Nietzsche, Hegel, and religion. Born in Freiburg, Germany, Kaufmann fled Nazi Germany in 1939 and emigrated to the United States. He received his PhD from Harvard University and spent the majority of his academic career at Princeton University.

Kaufmann's major works include:

• Nietzsche: Philosopher, Psychologist, Antichrist (1950): This influential book helped to rehabilitate Nietzsche's reputation and provided a new interpretation of his philosophy.

• Critique of Religion and Philosophy (1958): A critical examination of religious and philosophical thought, arguing against dogmatism and advocating for intellectual honesty.

• From Shakespeare to Existentialism (1959): An anthology and commentary tracing the development of existentialist themes in Western literature.

• The Faith of a Heretic (1961): A personal statement of Kaufmann's own philosophical and religious beliefs.

• Hegel: A Reinterpretation (1965): A revisionist interpretation of Hegel's philosophy.

• Without Guilt and Justice: From Decidophobia to Autonomy (1973): An exploration of moral autonomy and the rejection of guilt-based morality.

• Numerous translations of Nietzsche, including The Birth of Tragedy, On the Genealogy of Morality, The Gay Science, Thus Spoke Zarathustra, and The Will to Power. These translations are considered highly influential and are praised for their accuracy and readability.

Kaufmann's work is characterized by its intellectual rigor, clarity, and passionate defense of individual freedom and critical thinking. He was a prolific writer and a significant figure in 20th-century philosophy. His translations of Nietzsche have had a lasting impact on the reception and understanding of Nietzsche's work in the English-speaking world.