Menschliches, Allzumenschliches

A collection of aphorisms, subtitled as a book for free spirits. Nietzsche turns from his earlier devotion to Wagner and German romanticism toward a cooler, more scientific way of thinking.

The short passages examine morality, religion, art, psychology and society, often showing how lofty ideals can be traced to ordinary human motives. It marks a turning point in his career and the start of his mature style.