Five Types of Nihilism

What is political nihilism?

The conviction that the present social and political order is so corrupt that it must be destroyed rather than being reformed or changed.

What does moral nihilism deny?

The existence or rationality of morals, suggesting that one must live without moral principles or that there is no non-arbitrary way of choosing between rival moral claims.

What is the main belief of epistemological nihilism?

It holds that truth claims are entirely relative to individuals or groups, often leading to practical skepticism and a denial of the possibility of knowledge.

What does cosmic nihilism assert about the universe?

It denies that there is any meaning to be found in the cosmos, either absolutely or in a way that relates to human meaning-finding activities.

What is the view of existential nihilism on human existence?

It holds that human existence is meaningless and that claims of finding meaning in life are seen as delusions or lies.

What do all five types of nihilism share in common?

They all involve the denial of some important feature of human life.

How does the political nihilist view social structures?

Political nihilists deny the legitimacy of the present social structure and the views and institutions that inform it.

What do moral nihilists believe about moral obligations?

Moral nihilists deny the objectivity of moral principles and moral obligations.

What does epistemological nihilism deny regarding truth?

It denies the possibility of any kind of widely shared truth that goes beyond individual or small social group perspectives.

What does cosmic nihilism say about human existence in relation to the universe?

Cosmic nihilists conceive of the universe as either indifferent to or actively hostile to human existence.