The Idiots Guide to why You're Sad

https://docs.google.com/document/d/131mQngeoumbiTxlt_BiKU5bZTRYhGTFgzuxp9Jxfnt4/edit?usp=sharing

Existentialism vs. Layman's Nihilism: A Satirical Comparison

This document presents a lighthearted, satirical comparison between the philosophical school of existentialism and the "nihilistic" perspective of a hypothetical layman who lacks a deep understanding of philosophy but nonetheless embraces a sort of nihilistic outlook. The comparison aims to highlight the contrast between the nuanced, thoughtful approach of existentialism and the often simplistic, and sometimes comically ignorant, perspective of the layman.

Existentialism

Core Tenet: While acknowledging the potential for meaninglessness in the universe, individuals have the power to create their own meaning through their choices and actions.

Approach to Life: An active, self-willed approach to life, emphasizing personal responsibility and the freedom to create one's own purpose.

Response to Absurdity: Recognizes the inherent "absurdity" of existence but views it as a starting point for creating meaning, rather than a cause for despair.

Key Figures: Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Simone de Beauvoir.

Layman's Nihilism

Core Tenet: "Life is meaningless, so why bother?"

Approach to Life: Passive, often characterized by a sense of apathy or resignation.

Response to Absurdity: May revel in the perceived absurdity of existence, using it as justification for inaction or indifference.

Key Figures: That guy who always complains about everything, the internet troll who leaves nihilistic comments on every post.

A Satirical Look at the Layman's Perspective

On the Meaning of Life: "If life is meaningless, then I guess I'll just keep watching TV."

On Personal Responsibility: "Why should I bother trying to make a difference? It's all pointless anyway."

On the Absurdity of Existence: "Ha! The universe is a joke. Time to order another pizza."

On Existentialism: "Sounds like a bunch of fancy words for the same thing I've been saying all along."

The Irony

The irony, of course, is that the layman's nihilism, while claiming to be a rejection of meaning, often becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. By embracing a passive, apathetic approach to life, the layman inadvertently creates the very meaninglessness they claim to believe in. In contrast, the existentialist, by actively engaging with the world and taking responsibility for their own choices, finds meaning even in the face of absurdity.

Conclusion

This satirical comparison is intended to highlight the stark contrast between the thoughtful, nuanced approach of existentialism and the often simplistic, and sometimes comically ignorant, perspective of the layman's nihilism. While the layman may find a certain ironic humor in their nihilistic outlook, the existentialist sees the potential for meaning and purpose even in a seemingly absurd universe.