Existential Nihilism
This week we're going to look at Nihilism, a philosophical view that doesn't even acknowledge it's existence.
Understanding Existential Nihilism: Nihilism is a philosophical view that posits all values are baseless, and that nothing can be truly known or communicated. In a similar vein, existential Nihilism is the belief that human existence has no intrinsic meaning, and that all meaning is supplied by the individual.
Challenges: There are a few opponents to Existential Nihilism, one of them being evolutionary biology. Evolutionary Biologists believe that human life (or any life for that matter), is driven by a need to procreate, thus establishing an intrinsic reason for life. Another, is Christianity, which states that your life is meant to be used serving and glorifying God. Basically, any view that gives life inherent meaning, opposes Existential Nihilism.
Philosophical Implications: Since Existential Nihilism believes the only meaning that life has is subjective, and supplied by the individual, there is no universal set of morals, or a code to follow. This could be taken as a supremely freeing philosophy, or an extremely depressing philosophy, that is for you, dear reader, to interpret.
Practical Implications: Existential Nihilism lends itself toward a rather carefree attitude in life, and the answer to the question “Why?” being ofentimes “Because I can.”. It doesn’t inhibit individuals in any way, and allows for any set of morals that one desires. To sum it up in one quote; “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.” - William Ernest Henley, Invictus.
Thanks for reading! This is the topic that actually inspired me to write about philosophy in the first place, after I read Nietzsche’s “God is Dead”. As always, this was not a complete detailing of Existential Nihilism, but I hope ya’ll enjoyed it nonetheless.
Stay Curious,
-J.P.
Nihilism seems silly, I find meaning in every atom!
I understand this point of view. I like how you included some counter arguments