The Problem of Nihilism and contemporary Philosophy

Abstract

The aim of this article is to analyze the interpretation of the Italian philosopher Costantino Esposito regarding the phenomenon of contemporary Nihilism. Taking into the background of his treatment the great analyzes that European philosophy has carried out on the subject – Nietzsche, Heidegger, Sartre, Severino etc. –, the philosopher comes to propose an original reading of the nihilistic phenomenon. In fact, it would be undergoing a fundamental paradigm shift, transforming itself from the nullification of all values into a need for meaning. Following this path, Nihilism, far from being an insuperable condition, would represent a fundamental chance for a deeper understanding of man. In fact, overcoming Nihilism means rethinking the notion of Nothingness according to an existential meaning, as a philosophical tool capable of enhancing the mystery of being and of the man who inhabits it.