Heidegger's Philosophy and Its Connection to the Nazis: A Critical Analysis

Is there any link between Heidegger's philosophical thoughts and his involvement with the Nazi Party? Many scholars, including Tom Rockmore, argue that his deep debt to Hegel plays a significant role. This essay explores the connection between Heidegger's philosophy and his association with the Nazi Party, examining the potential reasons for his involvement and the impact of his continued support well after 1945.

The Influence of Hegel on Heidegger

Heidegger's philosophy, to a large extent, is indebted to Hegel, who was a highly controversial figure in history. Hegel's influence has been both celebrated and critiqued for promoting the idea that certain ideologies and movements could act as the 'World-Spirit' and thus could not be questioned. This concept led to the division of Hegelian schools into right and left wings, with Karl Marx representing the left and Heinrich Leo representing the right.

As Heidegger developed his own philosophical ideas, he did so in the spirit of these right-wing Hegelians, aligning himself with philosophical traditions that supported conservative and nationalist ideologies. This underscores the fact that while Heidegger's metaphysic might seem abstract and removed from political reality, its philosophical roots in Hegel have significant historical and political implications.

Reasons for Joining the Nazi Party

Identifying the exact reasons for Heidegger's involvement with the Nazi Party is complex. While racism played a role, many others who joined the party were influenced by social pressure and a sense of national duty. It is noteworthy that after Hitler's fall, many individuals, like Carl Jung, repented for their affiliations and publicly apologized.

Heidegger, however, remained a member of the Nazi Party until Hitler's death, and continued his support even after 1945, failing to renounce the party or offer any public condemnation of its actions. This persistent loyalty to the party is considered more damaging than his initial involvement.

Heidegger's Beliefs and Metaphysics

The question of whether there is a direct link between Heidegger's metaphysical ideas and anti-Semitism is a matter of ongoing debate. Some argue that his work is irrelevant to such ideologies, as many others have found value in his philosophy without adhering to his political beliefs.

It is important to note that the coherence and validity of Heidegger's philosophy do not necessarily require alignment with the ideas that constituted Nazism. This separation of philosophical merit from political affiliation is a hallmark of many intellectuals who support or study his work.

Additional Resources

For a deeper understanding of this topic, scholars recommend reading works by Tom Rockmore, Charles Bambach, Julian Young, and Hans Sluga. Additionally, Heidegger's interview with Der Spiegel and the available literature on German intellectuals and the Nazi party offer valuable insights.

Heidegger was not alone in his hopes for the NSDAP; many intellectuals, including Theodor Adorno (Benn), Fritz Heinemann (Gehlen), Carl Schmitt, and Gustav Leins (Schmitt) saw potential in the movement. Heidegger's dream of becoming the 'Leader of German Philosophy' reflects a shared ambition that idealized the NSDAP's political landscape.

In conclusion, while Heidegger's metaphysical ideas do not inherently support anti-Semitism, his deep connection to Hegel and his enduring support for the Nazi Party raise significant ethical and philosophical questions. His legacy in Western Philosophy remains a topic of intense critical analysis.