Lovecraftian Cosmicism | Existentialism, Absurdism and Nihilism
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Dec 25, 2020
Dive into the mind of H.P. Lovecraft as the discussion unveils the chilling philosophy of Cosmicism, exploring humanity's insignificance in the cosmos. Discover how this idea intertwines with absurdism, existentialism, and nihilism, offering different takes on life’s meaning. The conversation highlights existential dread and the quest for personal meaning amidst cosmic indifference. Reflect on how the void of inherent meaning can both engender despair and inspire the creation of individual values, all through a Lovecraftian lens.
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insights INSIGHT
Cosmicism vs. Traditional Beliefs
Cosmicism emphasizes humanity's insignificance in the vast universe, rejecting the idea of a benevolent God.
It explores the cosmic horror of the unknown and our powerlessness against indifferent cosmic forces.
insights INSIGHT
Philosophical Responses to Meaninglessness
Existentialism, Absurdism, and Nihilism all grapple with the meaninglessness of existence.
They offer different responses, from creating meaning through rebellion (Absurdism) to finding meaning in God (Monotheistic Existentialism).
insights INSIGHT
Cosmic Indifference and Human Insignificance
Lovecraft's Cosmicism shares similarities with Existential Nihilism but emphasizes humanity's insignificance.
Lovecraft's fiction portrays powerful, indifferent extraterrestrial beings that highlight our lack of cosmic importance.
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In 'The Myth of Sisyphus', Albert Camus delves into the concept of the absurd, which arises from the conflict between humanity's desire for meaning and the apparent indifference of the universe. Camus argues that this absurdity does not justify suicide but rather requires a revolt against it. He introduces Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology condemned to eternally push a boulder up a mountain only for it to roll back down, as the ideal absurd hero. Camus suggests that Sisyphus's acceptance of his fate and his continued effort to push the boulder up the mountain, despite its futility, exemplify the human condition and the possibility of finding happiness in the face of absurdity. The essay also discusses other examples of absurd lives and includes an appendix on the works of Franz Kafka.
Thus Spoke Zarathustra
Friedrich Nietzsche
Thomas Common
The book details Zarathustra's descent from his mountain solitude to share his transformative ideas about humanity and existence. Nietzsche explores themes such as the rejection of traditional moral values, individualism, and the concept of the Overman. Zarathustra's interactions with various characters reveal his struggle to articulate his vision and confront prevailing societal values. The book also delves into the existential test of the eternal recurrence of the same and the importance of self-overcoming and personal transformation[2][4][5].
The stranger
Albert Camus
Published in 1942, 'The Stranger' tells the story of Meursault, a Frenchman living in Algiers, who is characterized by his emotional detachment and apathy. The novel begins with Meursault's indifferent reaction to his mother's death and follows his journey through a series of events, including a senseless murder, which leads to his trial and sentencing. Camus uses Meursault's story to illustrate his philosophy of the absurd, highlighting the lack of inherent meaning in life and the importance of accepting and living with this reality. The novel also explores the tensions between French colonialists and native Algerians, reflecting Camus's own experiences and critiques of colonialism.
Being and Nothingness
Jean-Paul Sartre
In 'Being and Nothingness,' Jean-Paul Sartre delves into the fundamental categories of being and nothingness. He distinguishes between 'being-in-itself' (objects that simply exist and are unaware of themselves) and 'being-for-itself' (human consciousness, which is self-aware and free). Sartre argues that human beings are characterized by their freedom and responsibility, and that they must create their own being through their actions in the world. The book also introduces the concept of 'being-for-others,' highlighting the impact of others on our self-perception. Sartre rejects traditional notions of a transcendent reality and instead emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and authenticity in human existence[2][3][4].
The sickness unto death
Søren Kierkegaard
Call of Cthulhu
Howard Philip Lovecraft
No description available.
H.P. Lovecraft was an American writer who is known for his creation of what became the Cthulhu Mythos and the creator of the literary philosophy known as Cosmicism, emphasising the Cosmic Horror of the unknown and the insignificance of human beings in the vast realms of space and time. This episode explores the peculiar philosophy of Cosmicism and its similarities with absurdism, existentialism, and nihilism, three movements that arose from the human experience of anguish and confusion stemming from the Absurd, ultimately diverging to different perspectives on life.
Eternalised 
