Most people are deeply unhappy I believe, they might mask it and do things to take their mind off it but I think the majority are unhappy.
Just something I noticed somewhat recently, I could also be wrong, just my thoughts.
Discussion
At least in today's environments in America, I would tend to agree.
What's weird is me, too. At least with some people in my social circles. They're on myriad of medication for depression, anxiety, what have you. While I do understand that there are legitimate chemical imbalances that these medications can help out with, but when you are depressed or anxious or whatever, and even if you do have a chemical imbalance, you don't change anything about your lifestyle. You eat like shit, you don't exercise, you sit in front of a computer screen for work and to play video games once you get home And then complain about how sad and depressed and lonely you are and don't make an effort to change it. You are eating these medications, hoping that it will work. That's what's truly mind boggling to me and unfortunately there are a lot of people in this kind of position. At least according to my own observations, I don't know, I could be speaking out my ass here.
Friedrich Nietzsche predicted that the world would become increasingly nihilistic. He believed that the decline of religious and metaphysical beliefs, particularly Christianity in the Western world, would lead to a cultural crisis characterized by a loss of meaning and purpose. This crisis, which he called nihilism, involves the recognition that traditional values and beliefs have lost their power and that life may be inherently meaningless.
He saw the "death of God" as a pivotal event that would lead to nihilism, as the foundations of morality and meaning were historically grounded in religious faith. Without these foundations, Nietzsche feared that individuals might struggle to find purpose and direction.
However, Nietzsche also saw nihilism as a potential opportunity for transformation. He believed that individuals could overcome nihilism by creating their own values and embracing life-affirming philosophies.
Jean Baudrillard’s ideas in Simulacra and Simulation further illuminate this situation. He argued that in our contemporary society, reality has been replaced by simulations and hyperreality, where the representations of things are more influential than the things themselves. We’re constantly bombarded by media, technology, and consumer culture, which create a simulated world. This hyperreality provides a superficial sense of meaning and distraction from the harshness of existential void.
In essence, people might be turning to these simulations as a way to escape from the harsh reality of a world stripped of inherent meaning. The constant engagement with images, media, and consumer experiences offers temporary and superficial fulfillment, but it doesn’t address the deeper existential issues.
The unhappiness you observe might stem from this dynamic. As traditional sources of meaning wane, and as we immerse ourselves in simulations that offer only superficial comfort, a deeper dissatisfaction and sense of emptiness can prevail.
Could you recommend me some book? I wanted to dip my brain in Nietzsche, but something easier and understandable for a tired mum.
A good way to start with Nietzsche is to read or watch discussions about his philosophy to grasp his way of thinking. Next, focus on individual quotes that intrigue you, as his statements often have deep meanings that require considerable thought to understand. Beginning with one of his books can be overwhelming, so it's better to ease into his ideas gradually.
Watch the Nietzsche videos on these YouTube channels: Academy of Ideas, Weltgeist, Eternalised, and The Living Philosophy.