Repression

In "Beyond Good and Evil" Nietzsche writes about what psychology now refers to as repression. Repression is known as one of many defense mechanisms, where after trauma, people may "forget" what has happened to them. In reality, this memory of trauma isn't forgotten, it is just no longer a part of the conscious memory. Nietzsche states, "Forgetfulness is no mere vis inertiae, as the superficial believe; it is rather an active – in the strictest sense positive – inhibiting capacity...The temporary shutting of the doors and windows of consciousness; guaranteed freedom from disturbance by the noise and struggle caused by our underworld of obedient organs as they cooperate with and compete against one another." (Nietzsche, 1886:40).

Nietzsche, Friedrich Wilhelm. Beyond Good and Evil. Waiheke Island: Floating Press, 1886. Print.