Episode #216 ... The Self-Overcoming of Nihilism - Kyoto School pt. 1 - Nishitani

In this podcast episode, we delve into Keiji Nishitani's distinctive take on nihilism, setting it apart from Western views. Nishitani contends that while Western thought often seeks to define and conquer nihilism, a richer understanding lies in embracing it as a personal, experiential journey. He points out that the Western tendency to impose meaning in order to fight nihilism misses the valuable opportunity for self-discovery and a deeper connection to existence found in the "Great Doubt" that emerges from truly questioning our core beliefs. This experience resonates with Zen Buddhism, leading to the realization of "Sunyata," or emptiness—not as a mere void, but as the profound interconnectedness of all things, moving beyond dualistic thinking.