noun
nihilism
NYE-ih-liz-um/ˈnaɪɪlɪzəm/
The belief that life and values have no objective meaning.
The empty scales symbolize nihilism's rejection of inherent value.
Etymology
Nihil, 'nothing,' gives this doctrine its theme of negation. Initially applied to religion or morals, the term here concerns denying inherent meaning or value in life.
In context
we yes that's basically it we've jumped right into the whole nihilism part stemming from all of this yeah uh like the ability of so much that there's like no meaning derived from anything
More examples
- Our philosophy class discusses nihilism and the search for meaning.
- He rejects nihilism because he believes some moral truths are universal.
- The novel explores nihilism through a character who sees no inherent purpose in life.
Forms
nihilism
nihilist noun — Someone who denies objective meaning or value.
nihilistic adjective — Expressing belief that life lacks objective meaning.
Similar words
- absurdism
- Absurdism emphasizes the conflict between seeking meaning and finding none.