Within Reason #71 Unsolicited Advice - An Introduction to Nihilism
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Jun 9, 2024 
Joe Folley, creator of 'Unsolicited Advice,' joins to discuss nihilism in philosophy. They explore historical roots, Nietzsche's views, and the erosion of traditional beliefs. The conversation delves into literary characters, the absurdity of seeking meaning, and the correlation between beliefs and behaviors.
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Diogenes' Social Nihilism
- Diogenes the Cynic challenged Athenian social norms through provocative public actions.
- His life illustrated nihilism about societal customs by rejecting prevailing values drastically.
Historical to Modern Nihilism Shift
- Historically, nihilism began as rejecting social or sacred values and was close to political challenge.
- Modern nihilism emphasizes personal existential struggle more than political destruction.
Nietzsche's Critique of Christianity
- Nietzsche links resentment to powerlessness and views Christianity as a resentful moral reaction.
- He criticizes Christianity for diminishing human will and fostering a morality motivated by weakness.