As a philosophy enthusiast and researcher, I've spent considerable time delving into the depths of existential thought and its counterpoints. The question at hand is intriguing, as it invites us to explore the philosophical spectrum and the contrasting views that define our understanding of life's purpose and meaning.

The opposite of a nihilist is not simply a person who believes in a god or an afterlife, but rather someone who, despite recognizing the absence of inherent meaning in the universe, chooses to create their own purpose and values. This stance is often associated with existentialism, a philosophy that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and personal responsibility in a seemingly indifferent world.

Existentialists, like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, argue that life is inherently absurd due to the lack of a pre-established purpose or meaning. However, they diverge from nihilism in their approach to this realization. While a nihilist might use this as a reason to reject all values and morals, existentialists embrace the freedom that comes with the absence of a predetermined order. They believe that individuals must create their own meaning and live authentically, even in the face of absurdity.

Camus, in particular, is known for his concept of the "absurd hero," a figure who confronts the absurdity of life and chooses to live passionately and without despair. He posits that the only way to live in a world devoid of inherent meaning is to accept the absurd and continue to search for personal significance. This is a stark contrast to nihilism, where the absence of meaning often leads to a rejection of all values and a sense of hopelessness.

Existentialism, therefore, can be seen as a response to nihilism, offering a way to live meaningfully in a universe that does not inherently provide meaning. It is about embracing the freedom to create one's own values and to live life on one's own terms, despite the apparent indifference of the universe.

In essence, the opposite of a nihilist is someone who, instead of succumbing to despair or indifference, actively engages with life and seeks to create meaning through their actions and choices. This person is not necessarily religious or spiritual, but they are committed to living a life that is rich with personal significance, even if that significance is self-imposed.

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For Camus, the entire purpose of Existential philosophy is to overcome absurdity, or, more accurately, for man to triumph over the absurdity of existence. So Existentialism is the opposite of nihilism: the nihilist says "There is no god, no heaven or hell, so screw it: there can be no right or wrong.read more >>