Abstract

This chapter argues that the Buddha and Friedrich Nietzsche have very similar theories about the self. Both agree that there is no metaphysical self—no soul or permanent personal essence. Both agree that false beliefs about the self are the primary cause of personal and social conflict. But whereas Nietzsche concludes that we must always believe that we are a self, even as we continuously try to overcome its particular content and limitations, the Buddha argues that we can let go of the idea of being a self altogether and that we would be much better off if we did so.