Nihilism: meaning, definitions and examples

Philosophical Origins

• The term comes from the Latin 'nihil', meaning 'nothing', which reflects the central idea of the philosophy.
• Friedrich Nietzsche, a key figure in this movement, argued against traditional morals and values, suggesting they are constructed rather than inherent.
• Nihilism gained prominence in the 19th century amidst rapid societal changes and declining religious authority.

Literature

• Nihilism is a significant theme in Russian literature, especially in the works of Dostoevsky and Turgenev, showcasing characters grappling with a lack of meaning.
• The character of Raskolnikov in Dostoevsky's 'Crime and Punishment' embodies nihilistic thoughts that lead to profound moral conflict.
• In modern literature, authors like Samuel Beckett have drawn on nihilistic themes, challenging traditional narrative structures and questions of existence.

Pop Culture

• Nihilism has influenced various films and series, such as 'The Big Lebowski', showcasing with humor the absurdity of life.
• Many punk rock bands of the late 20th century embraced nihilism in their lyrics, reflecting feelings of disillusionment and rebellion.
• The themes of nihilism can be seen in popular video games, like 'Nihilumbra', which explores the concept of nothingness through gameplay.

Psychology

• Psychologically, nihilistic beliefs can lead to feelings of despair, but some argue they can also liberate individuals from societal constraints.
• Studies suggest that individuals who hold nihilistic views may struggle with depression more than those who believe life has inherent meaning.
• Nihilism can be linked to existential crises, where individuals question their purpose and confront the idea of nothingness.

Modern Implications

• In recent discussions, nihilism is often debated in the context of postmodern philosophy, challenging the idea of absolute truths.
• Some contemporary thinkers propose that nihilism can pave the way for new value systems, encouraging individuals to create their own meaning.
• With the rise of digital culture, some argue that nihilistic attitudes reflect the absurdities of modern life and online interactions.

Positioned at #23,499, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 23496 nauseous
• 23497 gash
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• 23499 nihilism
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• 23502 positivity
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