Definition of nihilism
1a : a viewpoint that traditional values and beliefs are unfounded and that existence is senseless and useless Nihilism is a condition in which all ultimate values lose their value. — Ronald H. Nashb : a doctrine that denies any objective ground of truth and especially of moral truths
2a : a doctrine or belief that conditions in the social organization are so bad as to make destruction desirable for its own sake independent of any constructive program or possibilityb capitalized : the program of a 19th century Russian party advocating revolutionary reform and using terrorism and assassination
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Origin and Etymology of nihilism
German Nihilismus, from Latin nihil nothing — more at nil
First Known Use: 1812
Other Philosophy Terms
NIHILISM Defined for English Language Learners
nihilism
playDefinition of nihilism for English Language Learners
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: the belief that traditional morals, ideas, beliefs, etc., have no worth or value
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: the belief that a society's political and social institutions are so bad that they should be destroyed
Medical Dictionary
Medical Definition of nihilism
2: skepticism as to the value of a drug or method of treatment
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See words that rhyme with nihilism Spanish Central: Translation of nihilism Nglish: Translation of nihilism for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of nihilism for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nihilism
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