 Zarathustra fails in this attempt, and instead of repelling and manipulating the populace into pursuing the goal of the Übermensch, the populace take Zarathustra literally and choose the "disgusting" goal of becoming the last men.This decision leaves Zarathustra disheartened and disappointed.Nietzsche warned that the society of the last man could be too barren and decadent to support the growth of healthy human life or great individuals.