Nihilism appeals because the root causes are oligarchy and kleptocracy: when you realize you are powerless in the large, the only real alternatives are disengag

Nihilism appeals because the root causes are oligarchy and kleptocracy: when you realize you are powerless in the large, the only real alternatives are disengagement and violence in the small. Why violence? In this context, it is the only thing guaranteed to leave a mark. The third alternative, the difficult way, is social engagement on a path to social democracy, to limiting the reach of autocrats and robber barons, and to defetishizing the first two amendments. But that path requires lifting one's eyes, abandoning one's out groups, working with all, and foregoing at least some comfort and self advantage. It is the only way. I doubt I will see it (entered 7th decade recently, feel pretty confident about that).