Optimistic Nihilism

Why are we here? Are we small? Were we put here for some greater purpose? When it comes to just asking those simple questions, it can often cause your mind to spiral into a void of thoughts and ideas that can be double-edged to the psyche of most individuals. Thoughts of existentialism can be quite the change of pace for those who don't normally ask questions. Nihilism itself is a widespread phenomenon of Western culture. It can be active, seen as a form of despair, but there are forms of nihilism that can oddly be optimistic as well.

On the cosmological scale, the universe is quite indifferent to humanity. And if we truly are this small, why should the universe care? Do the majority of humans care if they inadvertently step on an ant? More regularly, no. Some would say that our ignorance of what is beyond our small cluster of stars and planets, is out of our knowledge for a reason. Knowledge of the beyond could drive any man insane. Maybe ignorance of what lies beyond is a form of bliss or mercy. After all, those who are aware of more information are usually the most in despair.

We as humans can create value. That is where the optimism comes in. A theory is that we are actually not entitled to anything as humans. We give ourselves entitlements and rights, but depending on one's world view, some would say these are attributes we have given to ourselves. But, a silver lining is that we can create value. Human life would be completely indescribable if we did not create value for ourselves. While Nihilism is described as having trouble finding meaning or value in the higher purpose of life, we can still control how we feel or judge our own surroundings. The respite we receive in life will forever be temporary, it is possible for us to rise above the pain of life.

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