Nihilism

Gertz (Nihilism and Technology) explores the concept and ramifications of nihilism in this quirky and instructive work. In a playful tone, Gertz writes that nihilism is much more than a philosophy of meaninglessness, and makes the case that such things as optimism, idealism, sympathy, and certain forms of spirituality are much more nihilistic than one might at first think. “Nihilism is about evading reality rather than confronting it,” he writes, and it exposes the difference between “being indifferent because that is how one responds to the world and becoming indifferent because we want to be liberated from our feelings and attachments.” In this way, Gertz compares nihilistic detachment to that found in stoicism and Buddhism. By considering the connection of the rise of postmodernism to nihilism, Gertz points out that nihilism is far more present, powerful, and pervasive than its pessimistic reputation suggests: “Postmodernism is the recognition that the narratives, the ideas, and the values we use to give life meaning are empty shells—or, to be more precise, the recognition that these narratives, ideas, and values have always been empty shells.” For Gertz, understanding the “normal nihilism” of modern times and coming to grips with reality in the face of meaninglessness can help readers transform self-destruction into an opportunity for meaningful creation. Gertz’s pithy, persuasive work usefully explains how nihilism can provide motivation for self-inquiry and creativity. (Sept.)