Call for Papers: Arendt | Nietzsche — Genealogies, Affinities, Differences

36th International Nietzsche Congress
(Annual Conference of the Nietzsche Society)

Arendt | Nietzsche — Genealogies, Affinities, Differences

15–18 October 2026, Naumburg/Saale

Convenors: Prof. Dr. Christian Benne (Copenhagen) & Prof. Dr. Eva Geulen (ZfL)

The conference aims to examine the connections and differences in the thinking and writing of Hannah Arendt and Friedrich Nietzsche. Their works are connected both historically and systematically. Both reflected on their own time and the major intellectual contexts in ways that were as independent as they were influential. Both drew on similar sources, such as ancient philosophy and poetry. Both grappled with questions of power, guilt and resentment. Both were interested in the role of storytelling in the constitution of subjectivity and collectivity, but both also took a critical view of exaggerated trust in art. Concrete paths of reception and intellectual genealogies can be traced through the philosophical work of Martin Heidegger, Karl Jaspers and other contemporaries.

Although both were intensely preoccupied with modernity, Arendt and Nietzsche wrote against the backdrop of completely different historical experiences. Differences between their philosophical and political perspectives, their writing styles and their relationship to the public sphere must therefore be considered alongside their affinities. Studies on Nietzsche’s significance for Arendt are as welcome as comparisons that lead to mutual illuminations.

In addition to the major lines of inquiry, there should also be room for studies on specific aspects of Arendt and Nietzsche, such as gender relations, the role of Judaism and anti-Semitism, theories of natality and history, experiences of exile and foreignness, the concept of love, revolution, the special significance of poetry for both, and their ideas about education and educational institutions.

In addition to the main speakers, we are looking for further shorter section contributions (approx. 20 min presentation time). Depending on the response and the proposals submitted, up to 8 different sections will be set up. Section contributions should focus on a clearly defined topic and include both Arendt and Nietzsche. Proposals will be accepted until May 31 2026 at info@nietzsche-gesellschaft.de. Unfortunately, the organiser cannot cover travel and accommodation costs. Publication of the contributions in a relevant, peer-reviewed specialist publication is planned.