How Nihilistic Narratives in Media Undermine Traditional Social Norms

Abstract

Nihilistic narratives have become a significant presence in modern media, challenging traditional social norms and reshaping cultural values. These narratives critique foundational aspects of societal cohesion, such as morality, community, and purpose, by emphasizing meaninglessness, moral ambiguity, and alienation. While they provide a lens to question outdated traditions and oppressive structures, they also undermine shared ethical principles, weaken communal bonds, and disrupt collective aspirations. This paper explores the cultural consequences of nihilistic narratives, arguing that their widespread adoption risks promoting fragmentation, alienation, and apathy in society. As such narratives gain traction, the balance between critical reflection and the preservation of shared values becomes crucial to maintaining societal cohesion and meaning.