Which term best describes a belief that nothing matters?

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Study for the SAT Vocabulary 2025 Test. Master vocabulary with flashcards and questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term that best describes a belief that nothing matters is nihilism. Nihilism is a philosophical doctrine that suggests the absence of inherent meaning or value in life and often rejects the idea of moral principles, suggesting that life is ultimately futile or meaningless. This worldview can lead to a questioning of established norms and beliefs, emphasizing a sense of despair or a lack of purpose.

Empiricism is a theory of knowledge that asserts that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience, focusing on observation and evidence as the basis for understanding the world. Utilitarianism is an ethical framework that evaluates actions based on their consequences, specifically aiming to maximize overall happiness or utility. Altruism refers to selfless concern for the well-being of others and does not align with the notion of meaninglessness inherent in nihilism.

Thus, nihilism accurately embodies the concept of believing that nothing has value or purpose, making it the correct choice.