Nihilism and existentialism are two philosophical concepts that often get confused with each other. While both concepts deal with questions regarding the meaning of life, they approach these questions in vastly different ways. In this article, we will explore the difference between nihilism and existentialism.
What is Nihilism?
Nihilism is a philosophical belief that life has no inherent meaning or purpose. According to nihilists, everything in existence is ultimately meaningless and irrelevant. This includes moral values, social institutions, and religious beliefs.
Nihilists believe that there is no objective truth or morality in the universe. They argue that any attempt to find meaning in life is futile because life itself has no inherent value. Nihilists see life as a pointless and absurd struggle where nothing truly matters.
The Types of Nihilism
There are two main types of nihilism: epistemological nihilism and existential nihilism.
- Epistemological Nihilism: This type of nihilism argues that knowledge is impossible to attain. Since we can never be completely certain about anything, we should doubt all claims to knowledge.
- Existential Nihilism: This type of nihilism argues that life has no objective meaning or purpose.
What is Existentialism?
Existentialism is a philosophical belief that emphasizes individual freedom and choice. According to existentialists, individuals have free will and are responsible for creating their own meaning in life.
Existentialists reject the idea that there is an inherent meaning or purpose to life. Instead, they argue that individuals must create their own values and determine their own path in life. Existentialists believe that individuals must confront their own mortality and embrace the absurdity of existence.
The Types of Existentialism
There are two main types of existentialism: atheistic existentialism and religious existentialism.
- Atheistic Existentialism: This type of existentialism argues that life has no inherent meaning or purpose, but individuals have the freedom to create their own meaning through their choices.
- Religious Existentialism: This type of existentialism argues that individuals can find meaning in life through their relationship with God.
The Differences Between Nihilism and Existentialism
While both nihilism and existentialism reject the idea of an inherent meaning or purpose to life, they approach this rejection in different ways.
Nihilists believe that life is ultimately meaningless, while existentialists believe that individuals must create their own meaning. Nihilists see life as a pointless struggle, while existentialists see it as an opportunity for individual freedom and choice.
Another difference between nihilism and existentialism is their view on morality. Nihilists argue that morality is subjective and ultimately meaningless, while existentialists argue that individuals must create their own moral values.
Conclusion
In summary, nihilism and existentialism are two philosophical concepts that deal with questions regarding the meaning of life. While both concepts reject the idea of an inherent meaning or purpose to life, they approach this rejection in vastly different ways. Nihilists believe that life is ultimately meaningless, while existentialists believe that individuals must create their own meaning.