Assimilating finiteness: with Nietzsche and Heidegger at a crossroads

Abstract

The problem of finitude constitutes one of the most radical and pressing questions that humanity perennially faces; but especially in this century it has become evident that finitude cannot be overcome but, rather, must be assimilated. This article presents four modes of assimilation of finitude: Nietzsche’s last man and his superman, the Heideggerian decision for nullity and assumption of historic destiny, and assimilation open to transcendence. It is concluded that only with this fourth mode can the human be open to hope and to a positive view of existence and of his or her own finitude.