Now that I have access to both Bard and ChatGPT, I decide to give them both a try. The topic: Absurdism.
First question: What is absurdism?
Bard: Give a concise and quite satisfying answerChatGPT: The definition was confusing if I am generous, and half-baked to be totally honest.Therefore, for the second question, I follow up with ChatGPT, asking it to compare Absurdism with Nihilsm. For comparison sake, I also ask Bard the same.
Second question: What are the differences between Absurdism and Nihilsm?
Bard: Give a very detailed comparison, and I like this disclaimer a lot: “It is important to note that these are just general descriptions of absurdism and nihilism. There is a great deal of variation within each movement, and there are many people who identify with both absurdism and nihilism.”ChatGPT: Still giving a very confusing answer. So I asked them again if they were confused about the two. They apologized (which impressed me), “You are right, I apologize for the confusion. While both philosophies share the belief that life has no inherent meaning, they differ in their approach to this lack of meaning.” Last question, I asked both the relations between absurdism and suicide. By ChatGPT Absurdism is a philosophical and literary movement that suggests that the human quest for meaning is ultimately futile because the universe is inherently devoid of meaning. In this context, suicide is often seen as an escape from the absurdity of existence, but absurdism does not necessarily endorse or reject suicide as a solution. On the one hand, some absurdists like Albert Camus argued that suicide is not a valid response to the absurdity of life because it is an irrational and futile act. Camus believed that humans must confront the absurd and find meaning in the struggle itself, rather than seeking to escape it. In his essay “The Myth of Sisyphus,” Camus famously wrote that “There is but one truly serious philosophical problem, and that is suicide.” On the other hand, other absurdists like Franz Kafka portrayed suicide as a legitimate response to the absurdity of existence. In Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis,” the protagonist Gregor Samsa wakes up one day to find himself transformed into a giant insect. Unable to bear the shame and isolation of his new form, he eventually dies by suicide. In Kafka’s view, suicide is a natural and inevitable consequence of the absurdity of existence. In sum, while absurdism does not have a unified view on suicide, it does emphasize the human struggle to find meaning in a universe that lacks inherent meaning. By Bard
The relationship between absurdism and suicide is a complex one. On the one hand, absurdism acknowledges the meaninglessness of the universe. This can lead to a sense of despair and hopelessness, which could potentially lead to suicide.
On the other hand, absurdism also emphasizes the importance of living authentically and embracing the absurd. This can lead to a sense of meaning and purpose in life, even in the face of meaninglessness.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to commit suicide is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and it is important to consider all of the factors involved before making a decision.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to you, including:
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
- The Jed Foundation: https://www.jedfoundation.org/
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/
Please remember that you are not alone, and there is help available.
The answer by ChatGPT seems wordy for the sake of being wordy, like you need the extra words for an essay, while containing some minor inaccuracy. The answer by Bard is succint and easy to grasp, while also includes some helpful disclaimer regarding suicide hotline. So first impression for me: Bard feels like a professor, giving you consise answers. Whereas ChatGPT is more like a student essay, a bit lacking here and there, but feels good to read. Please note this is just one attempt, and that was the impression based on just one single topic that I am slightly more confident on judging. Not endorsing either.