nihilism

nihilism
1. (Nihilism) (1713↑, 232↓)
It's useless to define it.

It's useless to give an example...

2. (nihilism) (580↑, 110↓)
a belief in the pointless of existance. the absence of truth. the absence of reason. those who see it as a self-defeating argument are people who still have something to believe in. despite the universe being so mind-numbingly complex and consciousness itself being so much of a mystery, many people actually believe that nihilism is invalid because the 'logic' possessed by what we think of as our consciousness doesn't allow it to make sense. a christian might argue that god must exist because there must be some infinite force in the universe. they would then argue that god is the creator of all life, and that things like logic come from god, and in fact are a part of god (as he is infinite). unfortunately, this is also self-defeating, because by using logic to prove the existance of god (and thus logic) is just as absurd as nihilism. this, in turn, leads to the logic that nothing can be known. this then continues and endless loop of logic and anti-logic, making existance seem pointless, insane, and absurd. and THAT is what nihilism really is. Nietzsche is commonly associated with nihilism, although from what i've been able to figure out without actually studying it in school (while researching it in my spare time), he was not a nihilist himself. rather, he seems to be more of someone who defined it and contemplated the intricacies associated with it. [trent reznor], creator of [nine inch nails] is generally considered to be a true nihilist, which is represented by the lyrics, feeling, and sound of his music. even [nothing records], a record company started by reznor, embraces this concept in its name.

Exmaple 1: person A) god must exist. finite things have to come from somewhere, and only something infinite can make something finite. person B) that is based on so many assumptions that my brain wants to explode just thinking that someone can actually believe that the universe is that simple. just become a nihilist. it's a lot easier, and still allows you to function in society without being racist, homophobic, or sexist. person A) okay. person B) ph34|2. Example 2: person A) i sure am pissed that nine inch nails tour sold out in under 5 minutes. person B) shrug.

3. (nihilism) (209↑, 32↓)
A philosophy based on extreme skepticism. In it's most basic form (Before it was clouded by ideas involving politics, social rhetoric, sex, drugs, rock and roll etc.), which we can refer to as "epistemological nihilism", simply denies the possibility of knowledge of truth. Previous epistemological philosophies failed in obtaining truth because all possible vessels for obtaining truth cannot be proven truthful themselves. Empiricism fails because one must assume that their senses depict an accurate portrayal of their secular existence (or that a secular world even exists, for that matter), which fuels their observations; sensations also depend on senses to provide the observer with the source of the sensation. Rationalism fails because without a secular experience, real or imaginary, one's lack of experience prevents them from being able to reason. ie, they cannot reason without the use of empirical devices. Therefore, rationalism cannot gain one knowledge without empirical methods, which are already based on assumptions (faith) of senses; assumptions cannot lead to the knowledge of truth. Intuitionalism fails because it also has the potential to utilize empirical (and rational) devices; It allows one to alter their truth based on new experiences. This leaves room for "error" and keeps "truth" from being absolute or even certain.

Empiricist: Can't you see the truth? Person: No, I'm blind. Rationalist: I think, therefore I am. Person: You used speech to make that proclamation; One must use sight or hearing to interpret. Nihilist: Nothing can be certain. Person: You can't prove that. Nihilist: You're catching on. Nihilism is the only epistemological philosophy worth following.

4. (nihilism) (207↑, 83↓)
The belief that existence is useless and pointless, life has no meaning.

I've read so much Nietzsche, that I've adopted a nihlistic worldview\!

5. (nihilism) (127↑, 24↓)
Some of these definitions of Nihilism are complete rubbish. --A Brief Introduction To Nihilism "Every belief, every considering something-true," Nietzsche writes, "is necessarily false because there is simply no true world" (Will to Power [notes from 1883-1888]). Nihilism is the [philosophy] of total negation. In short, it states that all values are baseless and meaningless. Nothing in the universe can truly by known or communicated. The nihilist believes in nothing, has no loyalties and has no purpose in life. Some are left with only an impulse to destroy. Though, Friedrich Nietzsche is the philosopher most associated with nihilist, he is not a nihilist. [Nietzsche] was an [existentialist] who made nihilism infamous by helping shape and define it. He believed that the corrosive effects of nihilism would end up destroying all moral constructs, religions, and metaphysical convictions. Nietzsche believed that nihilism would be the most destructive force in history. Nihilism will attack reality itself and cause the greatest crisis humanity has ever seen. A study of several failed of civilizations by Oswald Spengler in The Decline of the West (1926) confirmed Nietzsche’s fears. Spengler has observed that nihilism has acted in history to undermine political, religious, and artistic traditions leading to that civilization’s collapse. After Nietzsche’s compelling critique, nihilism has preoccupied artists, social sceptics and philosophers. The type of art usually produced from the inspiration/horror of nihilism often deals with coping with nihilism emotionally. [Trent Reznor] comes to mind when I think of existentialist/nihilistic music. Some of his songs like “Terrible Lie” or “Happiness In Slavery” definitely carry nihilistic overtones. [Dada] was a cultural/art movement which endorsed nihilistic themes. It described itself as the anti-art. There are many types of nihilism, and I do no justice to this philosophy by attempting to summarize it in one paragraph. Existential nihilism deals with extreme pessimism and scepticism. In short, it states that life is meaningless or without purpose. For an existentialist, abandoning all illusions of meaning or worth in life is the source of ultimate freedom at the price of existential horror and despair. Jean-Paul Sartre stated: “existence precedes essence.” He believes that we are thrown into an absurd world with no way to know why, yet we’re forced to create meaning. We exist, and we attempt to figure out why afterwards. Moral nihilism states that there is no true moral code. It states that there is no such thing a ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ and abandons the moral constructs of any society. Once one starts the process of asking “Why? - What are morals based upon? What is the meaning of it all?” they come but to one end: the collapse into despair when they realize there is no real answer. From cosmic purposeless to pathological destruction nihilism is truly a terrifying un-belief.

"Nihilism is . . . not only the belief that everything deserves to perish; but one actually puts one's shoulder to the plough; one destroys" (Will to Power - Friedrich Nietzsche). I can really hear the nihilism in T. Reznor's music.

Author: Beautiful_Pathology http://nihilism.urbanup.com/1759123
6. (Nihilism) (60↑, 20↓)
Contrary to popular definitions, Nihilism is not synonymous with cynicism or despair. Instead, Nihilism is a worldview in which one believes only in what one's observations and experiences seem to prove true, and that which can be otherwise proven true. That said, Nihilism varies according to the nature of the individual nihilist, but there are a few key ideas which are kept by nearly all of them: 1. The beginning of the universe was, within certain parameters, a basically random event, and the same holds for all events occuring since. It follows, then, that final purpose in things is false. Life, then, is an end-in-itself. 2. There exists no absolute truth regarding the value of any deed over another, such as right vs. wrong. Value systems, ethical codes, etc. are thus of no use to the Nihilist, except if they serve his best interests, increase their quality of life, or if they simply fall in line with what behavior would come naturally. 3. From the above it follows that responsibility, obligation, and the like are also falsehoods. Nihilists are thus inclined to ignore or sneer at societal norms and conditioned mentalities. 4. The first priority of every nihilist is his own well-being, satisfaction, and survival, and every action is ultimately done in the name of these things. However, he does not consciously pursue these ends; instead, he acts upon what feels natural and makes sense to him, and these naturally result. However, the above assumes that the Nihilist is in unity with himself, and possesses an undamaged psyche. In reality, some people are self-destructive by nature, and, if they took up a Nihilistic worldview, would seem to have a death-wish as the motive behind their actions. Since self-destructive individuals are common in modern society, this is probably how Nihilism has come to be seen as another word for despair.

1. Nihilism is not necessarily a self-absorbed worldview, since one may find altruistic deeds to lead to greater well-being. 2. Some Nihilists may even follow traditional dogmas, if they are proven to work for the best.

7. (nihilism) (40↑, 18↓)
A philosophy based on extreme skepticism. In it's most basic form (Before it was clouded by ideas involving politics, social rhetoric, sex, drugs, rock and roll etc.), which we can refer to as "epistemological nihilism", simply denies the possibility of knowledge of truth. Previous epistemological philosophies failed in obtaining truth because all possible vessels for obtaining truth cannot be proven truthful themselves. Empiricism fails because one must assume that their senses depict an accurate portrayal of their secular existence (or that a secular world even exists, for that matter), which fuels their observations; sensations also depend on senses to provide the observer with the source of the sensation. Rationalism fails because without a secular experience, real or imaginary, one's lack of experience prevents them from being able to reason. ie, they cannot reason without the use of empirical devices. Therefore, rationalism cannot gain one knowledge without empirical methods, which are already based on assumptions (faith) of senses; assumptions cannot lead to the knowledge of truth. Intuitionalism fails because it also has the potential to utilize empirical (and rational) devices; It allows one to alter their truth based on new experiences. This leaves room for "error" and keeps "truth" from being absolute or even certain.

Empiricist: Can't you see the truth? Person: No, I'm blind. Rationalist: I think, therefore I am. Person: You used speech to make that proclamation; One must use sight or hearing to interpret. Nihilist: Nothing can be certain. Person: You can't prove that. Nihilist: You're catching on. Nihilism is the only epistemological philosophy worth following.

8. (nihilism) (21↑, 14↓)
The philosophy that life, the universe, and existence are essentially pointless. all nihilists are atheists, but not all atheists are nihilists.

George Carlin's later comedy indicates a streak of nihilism

9. (nihilism) (8↑, 2↓)
'The ethical theory that there can be no true morality as there can not logically be any absolute scale within the fundamental laws of the universe with which to measure them'

Average person: it is morally good to save a child's life Nihilist: it is neither good nor bad to save the child's life according to nihilism Average person II: It is morally good to stick a baby in a blender according to nihilism Nihilist: it is neither good nor bad to blend a baby Diamondback-Omega: it is funny though =]

Author: Diamondback-Omega http://nihilism.urbanup.com/4643802
10. (Nihilism) (9↑, 4↓)
A theory that life is without purpose, many things deconstruct to this after continuous questioning of why. From this, we realise value does not exist (without purpose it can't have extrinsic value) Ethics and Morals become non existent and are merely thought to be invented by man for man to control man even though he has no reason to be controlled. Also, Nihilists don't believe in anything. (Thoughts and ideas are not beliefs)

Prole1 "Don't do that, it's evil and wrong." Nihilist "why is it? men have created morals and ethics not realising they are useless, we are without purpose. Nihilism makes you're ideas invalid" Prole2 "We need to care for our planet." Nihilist "Why? it has no value."

11. (Nihilism) (35↑, 36↓)
The belief in nothing.

"Blessed are those who believe in nothing; never shall it terrorize them." \nihilismRagnar Redbeard "He who knows nothing, doubts nothing." \nihilismConfuscious

12. (Nihilism) (5↑, 9↓)
The absolute name invented to cover up one's inability to find meaning or self-worth. It's absolute character offers a pseudo-certainty in so far as it can never change. Thus by declaring myself to believe in nothing I have at last found an absolute to believe in and thus confer upon myself a permanent identity in the face of death. Nihlists like atheists are really somebody, unaware of the fact that he who believes in nothing actually believes in something.

A Hollywood film producer who makes money out of selling death and destruction to the gullible. In their marble-clad mansions they discuss nihilism between drinks and dream of Oscars and similar votive offerings to their superior 'insight.' Their passing gifts to the world are suffering, delusions and fear of what men can become when they cease to believe in Something Bigger than their own greed and stupidity.

13. (nihilism) (15↑, 27↓)
The end result of progressive philosophizing through nihilism for a means to enrich mind and existence - a conduit through which human society becomes harmonious with nature, disposing of excess life and current values and morals and replacing them with ones better fit to improve the quality of life for higher quality humans, and opposing racial integration through the realization that each race has specific unique qualities which better allow them to thrive in their respective parts of the Earth.

Nihilism allows the realization that modern life is flooded by useless social constructs, which don't really "exist".

14. (Nihilism) (6↑, 32↓)
Very close related to anarchy but with a slight difference. Anarchy is the belief of no government, that the people can govern themselves. Nihilism is the same belief, except with anarchy people support eachother. In nihilism it is every man for himself.

Anarchy: Mandy- So I heard Bob got shot. Anthony- I know, Chris saved his life. Nihilism: Mandy- So I heard Chris got shot. Anthony- I know, sucks to be him. He better watch himself. Chris left as soon as he saw it, he didnt want to get shot.

15. (nihilism) (28↑, 64↓)
A philosophical viewpoint whose members believe in nothing, not even nihilism. Thus, it is self-defeating, and utterly pointless.

I have yet to see anything, good or bad, come out of nihilism.

16. (nihilism) (22↑, 59↓)
The first song on Rancid's second CD, Let's Go\!

"Nihilism" Hey\! [x4] come into the union district drive down on sharmon palms white ghettos paint a picture broken homes and broken bones i was so full of scotch i could not stand up i was hittin the shots and i moved to a cup release me from moral assumption total rejection total destruction nihilistic feelings are moving if you try real hard you’ll see right through them nihilism\! [x4] come into the union district drive down on sharmon palms white ghettos paint a picture broken homes and broken bones walkin a path of self destruction not affected by the repercussions lady on the billboard offer me a drink said not right now i need time to think nihilistic feelins are movin if i try real hard i'll see right through them nihilism\! [x4] [background] nihilism [x6] i was so full of scotch i could not stand up i was hittin the shots and i moved to a cup come into the union district drive down on sharmon palms white ghettos paint a picture broken homes and broken bones yeah... Broken Bones\! Hey\! [x4]

Author: Cowzilla, Pie lover extraordinare http://nihilism.urbanup.com/1222031
17. (Nihilism) (29↑, 69↓)
Hey, the other definition is all well and but it missed the point. Nihilism is great\! Nothing matters\! Have a good time\! Chill out\! Be good to each other\! Be a hippy/nihilist hybrid and love the world\!

Yay Nihilism\! It's all true\!

Author: TheLastAngryBriton http://nihilism.urbanup.com/926386
18. (Nihilism) (8↑, 50↓)
A double standard. For those with no self-esteem/control who embrace defying the social norms. They usually set themselves up as a new world cultural/spiritual leader while sanctioning rules upon the masses. the blind leading the blind

Typical example of person who follows Nihilism: "I aint no coward, I just knows I'm like the most perfect superior being\! I'm just like soo great and awesome. Imma create my own religion with no rules for me\! The rest of you foos have to do everything I say. Bow down. Hey, look at me, look at me\! "

19. (nihilism) (18↑, 63↓)
a self-diferentially absurd way to live ones life. Followers of this philosophy believe in nothing, not even nihilism.

"there are absolutely no absolutes" hmm.. that sounds about as stupid as nihilism..

Author: happy the hardcore clown http://nihilism.urbanup.com/1583922
20. (nihilism) (66↑, 120↓)
The most useless philosophy ever devised.

The purpose of questioning values is to determine which are useful and which aren't. Nihilism defeats itself. Saying everything is worthless is like saying everything is valuable. It is a cop-out philosophy for angry teenagers who want to sound cool and intellectual.

Author: Killing Kittens http://nihilism.urbanup.com/1098630
Related: existentialism, philosophy, nihilist, nothing, nietzsche, anarchy, left, liberal, libertarian, nihil, belief, black metal, death, god, libertine, morals, nothingness, anarchist, apathy, atheism, communism, dada, destruction, ethics, existence, fag, freedom, gay, godless, goth, liberty, license, life, marxism, meaningless, noun, pointless, porn, purple, rationality
Last updated: 2012.03.01

Urban English dictionary. 2013.

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  • Nihilism — • One who bows to no authority and accepts no doctrine, however widespread, that is not supported by proof. Catholic Encyclopedia. Kevin Knight. 2006. Nihilism     Nihilism      …   Catholic encyclopedia

  • nihilism — NIHILÍSM s.n. Atitudine, tendinţă, concepţie sau manifestare care neagă rânduielile, instituţiile, morala, tradiţiile culturale existente într o societate dată, fără să le opună, în schimb, altele superioare; atitudine de negare absolută. – Din… …   Dicționar Român

  • nihilism —    Nihilism is literally the belief in nothing, that is, the rejection of everything. Few Western philosophers believe that nothing exists at all, though this view is attributed to some Eastern philosophers; nihilism is usually used to denote the …   Christian Philosophy

  • nihilism — [nī′ə liz΄əm, nē′ə liz΄əm; nī′hi liz΄əm, nē′hiliz΄əm] n. [< L nihil (see NIHIL) + ISM] 1. Philos. a) the denial of the existence of any basis for knowledge or truth b) the general rejection of customary beliefs in morality, religion, etc.:… …   English World dictionary

  • Nihilism — Ni hil*ism, n. [L. nihil nothing: cf. F. nihilisme. See {Annihilate}.] 1. Nothingness; nihility. [1913 Webster] 2. The doctrine that nothing can be known; scepticism as to all knowledge and all reality. [1913 Webster] 3. (Politics) The theories… …   The Collaborative International Dictionary of English

  • nihilism — index anarchy, lynch law Burton s Legal Thesaurus. William C. Burton. 2006 …   Law dictionary

  • nihilism — (n.) 1817, the doctrine of negation (in reference to religion or morals), from Ger. Nihilismus, from L. nihil nothing at all (see NIL (Cf. nil)), coined by German philosopher Friedrich Heinrich Jacobi (1743 1819). In philosophy, an extreme form… …   Etymology dictionary

  • nihilism — [n] refusal to believe abnegation, agnosticism, anarchy, atheism, denial, disbelief, disorder, lawlessness, mob rule*, nonbelief, rejection, renunciation, repudiation, skepticism, terrorism; concept 689 Ant. belief, faith, obedience, optimism …   New thesaurus

  • nihilism — ► NOUN 1) the rejection of all religious and moral principles. 2) Philosophy extreme scepticism, maintaining that nothing has a real existence. DERIVATIVES nihilist noun nihilistic adjective. ORIGIN from Latin nihil nothing …   English terms dictionary

  • Nihilism — This article is about the philosophical doctrines. For other uses, see Nihilism (disambiguation). Certainty series Agnosticism Belief Certainty Doubt Determini …   Wikipedia

  • nihilism —    by Rex Butler   Nietzsche is one of Baudrillard s defining influences. He is one of the few thinkers whose presumptions are not turned against them as Baudrillard was to do with Marx in The Mirror of Production (1975 [1973]) and Saussure in… …   The Baudrillard dictionary

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