Discussion Post: Philosophy
The following discussion has three parts:
• Briefly explain how West interprets the existentialist terms, "despair," "absurd" and "angst" (or "anxiety") as features of the nihilistic condition that has threatened Black communities in the U.S.
• Based on West's critique of American politics and his explication of nihilism, analyze what he means by the term "culture" (NOTE: you should be mindful that "culture" is neither simply economics/ politics nor personal values like work ethic)
• Highlight one way in which capitalism/ consumerism (or "market morality") has undermined cultural buffers against nihilism or contributes to nihilism in Black communities and in America as a whole [I encourage you to offer your own view on this matter, or alternatively, if you are relying on West's analysis, I recommend that you offer a concrete example from contemporary culture to complement West's analysis].
Reading page:
• Sartre: Existentialism is a Humanism 42-54; Lecture notes on Sartre
• West: "Nihilism in Black America"
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.