Laughing at Nothing

Humor as a Response to Nihilism

By John Marmysz | Publisher: State University of New York Press

About the book

Disputing the common misconception that nihilism is wholly negative and necessarily damaging to the human spirit, John Marmysz offers a clear and complete definition to argue that it is compatible, and indeed preferably responded to, with an attitude of good humor. He carefully scrutinizes the phenomenon of nihilism as it appears in the works, lives, and actions of key figures in the history of philosophy, literature, politics, and theology, including Nietzsche, Heidegger, Camus, and Mishima. While suggesting that there ultimately is no solution to the problem of nihilism, Marmysz proposes a way of utilizing the anxiety and despair that is associated with the problem as a spur toward liveliness, activity, and the celebration of life.

Editions of Laughing at Nothing

Hardcover
ISBN 9780791458396
Paperback
ISBN 9780791458402
PDF
ISBN 9780791486283

Read an Excerpt

Disputing the common misconception that nihilism is wholly negative and necessarily damaging to the human spirit, John Marmysz offers a clear and complete definition to argue that it is compatible, and indeed preferably responded to, with an attitude of good humor. He carefully scrutinizes the phenomenon of nihilism as it appears in the works, lives, and actions of key figures in the history of philosophy, literature, politics, and theology, including Nietzsche, Heidegger, Camus, and Mishima. While suggesting that there ultimately is no solution to the problem of nihilism, Marmysz proposes a way of utilizing the anxiety and despair that is associated with the problem as a spur toward liveliness, activity, and the celebration of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Laughing at Nothing about?

Disputing the common misconception that nihilism is wholly negative and necessarily damaging to the human spirit, John Marmysz offers a clear and complete definition to argue that it is compatible, and indeed preferably responded to, with an attitude of good humor. He carefully scrutinizes the phenomenon of nihilism as it appears in the works, lives, and actions of key figures in the history of philosophy, literature, politics, and theology, including Nietzsche, Heidegger, Camus, and Mishima. While suggesting that there ultimately is no solution to the problem of nihilism, Marmysz proposes a way of utilizing the anxiety and despair that is associated with the problem as a spur toward liveliness, activity, and the celebration of life.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Laughing at Nothing?

Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Religion: general > Philosophy of religion

Where can I read a sample of Laughing at Nothing?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780791458396

How long is Laughing at Nothing and how many pages does it have?

Laughing at Nothing has 217 page(s)

Who is/are the Author/s of the book Laughing at Nothing?

John Marmysz

Who is the Publisher of the book Laughing at Nothing?

State University of New York Press

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

Laughing at Nothing is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780791458396) and paperback(ISBN 9780791458402) and pdf(ISBN 9780791486283)

Where can I buy Laughing at Nothing online or support local independent bookshops?

You can buy Laughing at Nothing from below

Where can I buy Laughing at Nothing?