Master Morality, Slave Morality
Nietzsche hypothesized moral systems developed from within a society. The societal systems, and their cultures, were examined in Genealogy of Morals, published in 1887. In this book, Nietzsche discussed the Master Morality of aristocratic cultures, such as the Roman Empire, and the Slave Morality of Jewish communities. Nietzsche recognized that the two cultures were actually components of one greater society / culture, but the moral systems were markedly different.
The aristocratic class, or ruling class, became leaders through their naturally superior abilities and stronger aggressive instincts, according to Nietzsche. This has improperly led to a belief that Nietsche thought a race could be naturally superior; his only claim was the individuals can be born superior. As proof, slaves could become citizens and even senators in Rome. These natural leaders, according to Nietzsche, would highly value sexuality based upon Darwin's theories that the strong wish to procreate and continue their power.
Another mark of the ruling class would be an acceptance of aggression and the use of force. As these rulers express power openly, they view the pursuit of power and the defense of self as honorable. For this reason, Nietzsche speculated that these leaders would not hold a grudge against enemies. In fact, they would not view competitors for power as enemies, but rather as opponents in a great game of human ability. These rulers welcome competition, believing that it builds character and teaches valuable lessons. After a battle, they study their failures and openly admit the strengths of others. Nietzsche wrote that such leaders do not see a right and wrong, only a superior and inferior combatant.
In stark contrast to the ruling class, the subservient populations embrace a moral code based upon a mythical equality of individuals. Knowing this, the aristocrats claim to acknowledge this equality in various empty manners -- such as equality under the law, which applies seldom in reality. The subservient, slave class eventually realizes that life cannot be equal, so a religion is developed promising that they are actually superior to those in power on earth.
Nietzsche hypothesized the slave class embraced democracy and the principle of equality in order to bring the naturally superior class down to their own level. Sin and evil are artificial constructs, created by the slaves and adopted by the leaders of this class, who often become leaders in the aristocratic class -- proving they do not believe in this religious myth. The slaves demean sex, human desire, and teach humility instead of respect for power and authority. Nietzsche believed this was a repression of resentments. A minority of religious leaders are either true believers or individuals seeking power, but unable to admit this due to their own repressed natures.