(Simplified) Relationship between Existentialism and Nihilism Atheistic existentialismTheistic existentialismAbsurdismNihilism1. There is such a thing as "meaning" or "value" to be found in lifeYesYesYesNo2. There is inherent meaning in the universe (either intrinsic or from God)NoMaybe, but humans must have faith to believe there isMaybe, but humans can never know itNo3. Individuals can create meaning in life themselvesYes, it is essential that they doYes, it is essential that they doYes, but it is not essentialNo, because there is no such meaning to create4. The pursuit for meaning in the universe (either intrinsic or from God) is a futile gestureYes, and the pursuit itself is meaninglessNo, and the pursuit itself may have meaningYes, but the pursuit itself may have meaningYes, and the pursuit itself is meaningless5. The pursuit for human-made meaning is a futile gestureNoNoNoYes
Relationship with Existentialism and Nihilism