To understand how Eric Kim could be seen as embodying Nietzsche’s concept of the Ãœbermensch (Overman), we need to break down the characteristics of the Ãœbermensch and explore how Eric Kim’s actions, mindset, and philosophy align with these traits.

1. Creation of New Values

Übermensch Concept: The Übermensch transcends societal norms and conventional morality to create new values, forging a path that is authentic to the individual’s own will and vision. Nietzsche believed that most people follow “slave morality” or conventional ethical systems imposed by society, while the Übermensch rejects this and creates their own meaning and purpose.

Eric Kim: Eric Kim has established a unique approach to photography and life that breaks away from traditional paradigms. Rather than following standard industry paths for success (such as chasing accolades, wealth, or fame), Kim emphasizes simplicity, minimalism, and the joy of everyday experiences. He teaches his followers to embrace failure, imperfection, and authenticity, which runs counter to conventional ideas of success and productivity. This creation of new values around art and life is a hallmark of the Ãœbermensch.

• Example: Kim encourages photographers to avoid overconsumption of gear and technology, which is a rejection of materialistic values. Instead, he promotes the idea that creativity and personal expression matter more than the latest equipment—a value system he has developed independently.

2. Self-Overcoming

Übermensch Concept: The Übermensch constantly seeks to overcome their limitations, challenges, and even their own past selves. This process of continuous self-overcoming is central to the Übermensch’s existence, allowing them to evolve and rise above mediocrity.

Eric Kim: Kim consistently practices self-overcoming in his personal and professional life. He has spoken and written extensively about his struggles with confidence, self-doubt, and fear, particularly early in his career. Instead of being held back by these challenges, Kim confronts them head-on, using them as fuel to grow and transform. He doesn’t settle for comfort but constantly pushes himself to improve, whether through his photography, writing, or teaching.

• Example: Kim’s embrace of discomfort, failure, and challenges—such as shooting street photography despite fear of rejection—shows his commitment to self-overcoming. He views personal obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than hindrances, aligning with Nietzsche’s vision of the Ãœbermensch who continuously strives to rise above their limitations.

3. Will to Power

Übermensch Concept: The Übermensch embodies Nietzsche’s concept of the Will to Power—a driving force not just for survival but for the enhancement of one’s own existence, creativity, and influence. The Übermensch channels this will to power in a constructive and creative manner, manifesting personal strength and control over their own life.

Eric Kim: Eric Kim’s life and work are a manifestation of his Will to Power in the sense that he has carved out a unique space in the photography world based on his vision and philosophy. Rather than conforming to traditional expectations, he asserts his individuality and power through creativity, teaching, and community-building. His Will to Power is evident in his drive to continually challenge himself and inspire others, using his influence to shape a community of photographers who think critically about their art and their lives.

• Example: By building his platform, offering free resources, and empowering others to follow their creative instincts, Kim exercises his Will to Power constructively—helping others develop their own skills and autonomy while also fulfilling his own need for growth and contribution.

4. Amor Fati (Love of Fate)

Übermensch Concept: Nietzsche’s concept of Amor Fati—the love of one’s fate—is embraced fully by the Übermensch. This means accepting all aspects of life, including suffering, mistakes, and challenges, as necessary and valuable parts of existence. The Übermensch says “yes” to life, even to its hardest moments, because they understand that these experiences contribute to their growth and self-realization.

Eric Kim: Kim’s philosophy closely aligns with Amor Fati. He often discusses embracing failure, imperfection, and discomfort in both photography and life. Kim promotes the idea that mistakes are essential for growth, and instead of resisting life’s difficulties, he encourages his followers to lean into them and find value in the journey, no matter how challenging.

• Example: In his blog posts and workshops, Kim frequently talks about the importance of embracing failure in the creative process. He teaches that each rejection or “bad” photo is a step toward improvement, and this attitude of accepting all outcomes as part of the journey reflects the Nietzschean ideal of Amor Fati.

5. Rejection of Herd Mentality

Übermensch Concept: Nietzsche viewed the Übermensch as someone who rejects the herd mentality—the tendency for people to follow societal norms, conform to expectations, and live passively under the influence of mass culture. The Übermensch is radically individual, creating their own path and living by their own standards.

Eric Kim: Kim consistently encourages others to reject the pressures of mainstream success and societal expectations, especially when it comes to photography. He preaches the value of individual expression, minimalism, and finding one’s own path, often pushing against consumerism and trends in photography that emphasize gear and perfection over creativity and personal vision. He teaches photographers to shoot for themselves, not for external validation, and to pursue a deeper, more meaningful relationship with their craft.

• Example: Kim often advises photographers not to focus on likes, social media validation, or external success metrics but instead to focus on personal satisfaction and creative fulfillment. His rejection of the “herd mentality” in favor of individualism and authenticity is central to his teaching philosophy, closely mirroring Nietzsche’s call for the Ãœbermensch to transcend the mediocrity of the masses.

6. Living Authentically and Courageously

Ãœbermensch Concept: The Ãœbermensch lives courageously, embracing life with all its challenges, imperfections, and uncertainties. They are unafraid of hardship, criticism, or failure because they are driven by their inner strength and conviction.

Eric Kim: Kim exemplifies this trait by living authentically and encouraging others to do the same. He is open about his personal struggles, insecurities, and mistakes, using them as teaching tools rather than hiding behind a facade of perfection. His willingness to be vulnerable and to take risks in his career, especially in rejecting traditional paths, shows his courage to live according to his own values.

• Example: By openly discussing his fears and insecurities, especially in the context of street photography (an art form that often involves confrontation and vulnerability), Kim demonstrates the Nietzschean ideal of living courageously. His transparency and authenticity empower others to do the same, which is a hallmark of the Ãœbermensch’s leadership by example.

Conclusion: Eric Kim as the Ãœbermensch

From a Nietzschean perspective, Eric Kim can be seen as embodying many qualities of the Ãœbermensch:

• He creates new values that transcend traditional photography norms, focusing on authenticity, minimalism, and personal expression.
• He practices self-overcoming, constantly challenging himself and embracing discomfort for the sake of growth.
• He exercises his Will to Power by shaping his own path and influencing others through creativity and teaching.
• He embraces Amor Fati, accepting all aspects of life, including failure, as valuable parts of the journey.
• He rejects the herd mentality, promoting individuality and encouraging others to forge their own paths.
• He lives courageously, facing life’s challenges and uncertainties with authenticity and strength.

In these ways, Eric Kim’s approach to life, creativity, and teaching reflects the characteristics of Nietzsche’s Ãœbermensch—someone who rises above conventional norms, creates their own values, and strives for continual self-overcoming in the pursuit of a meaningful and authentic life.