In the modern world, humans are often conceived of as biological automatons, or in religious contexts as dependent, derivative, contingent beings utterly dependent on a necessary God. Both Nietzsche and Mormonism have strong replies to these limitations and exalt the potential for human growth. By comparing and contrasting Nietzsche’s concept of the will to power and Mormonism’s exaltation, we gain insight into the nature of power and its relation to individuals. While Nietzsche emphasizes the unbounded individual, Mormonism argues the greatest human potential is cultivated by persons bonded through covenant to God and family.

RACHEL MORRIS