Exploring Rust Cohle's Existential Nihilism in 'True Detective'

In the critically acclaimed series 'True Detective', Rust Cohle's worldview is deeply rooted in existential nihilism, a philosophy that posits life as inherently meaningless and characterized by suffering and illusion. This essay delves into Rust's deeply pessimistic outlook and how it reflects key themes in the show, ultimately positioning him as an example of the Nietzschean concept of the übermensch.

Rust Cohle: A Pessimist and His Work

Throughout the series, Rust Cohle is portrayed as a deeply pessimistic individual who is singularly focused on his work. This fixation stems from his lack of time or capacity for meaningful relationships. For Rust, normal human concerns such as love, joy, and happiness are of little to no value. Instead, he dedicates his life to grappling with the profound meaninglessness of existence and the inevitability of human suffering.

The Nihilist View: God is Dead

Rust's philosophical stance is emblematic of the broader theme of existential nihilism in 'True Detective'. This perspective is encapsulated in the phrase 'God is Dead', a reference to Nietzsche's claim that religion and its subsequent moral framework no longer hold any power or relevance. During a heated argument in episode three, Rust expresses this sentiment to his colleagues, highlighting his belief that there is no divine purpose to life. His inductive inquiry into murder and truth is driven by a recognition that morality and spirituality are constructs with no inherent truth.

Fatalism and Recurrence

Rust's fatalistic worldview is further illustrated in his discussions about the concept of recurrence, a theme that reappears throughout the series. In episode five, after a significant shooting incident, Rust asserts that time is a flat circle, suggesting that events and lives repeat inevitably, lacking any purpose. This notion is punctuated by the line, 'You just have to accept it, you live, you die, you fucking live it again.' This repetition is both terrifying and cyclical, reinforcing the sense that human existence is a futile and endless loop.

The übermensch: Superiority and Mystique

Rust Cohle is also labeled as an übermensch, a concept introduced by Nietzsche. In 'True Detective', Rust is posited as a superior being, different from the ordinary men he works with, yet in a way, better than them. His physical and mental prowess, combined with a mystical quality, elevates him beyond his peers, making him a figure of deep intrigue and suspicion.

However, what makes Rust truly compelling is not just his superiority, but the reflections of mediocrity that surround him. In the show, Rust's nemesis, Marty, serves as a foil to Rust's übermensch. As Clark Kent is to Superman, Marty can be seen as a critique of the übermensch. His portrayal as an ordinary police officer underscores Rust's otherworldly nature, making the viewer reflect on what makes Rust more admirable or detestable. The comparison serves as a reflection on the human condition, forcing us to question which character most represents our own struggles and aspirations.

A Dark Show Reflecting Human Struggles

'True Detective' is not merely a show about crime and investigation, but a profound exploration of existential and moral questions. Its dark themes make it a thought-provoking series that challenges viewers to examine their own beliefs and values. The battle between Rust and Marty is not just a narrative conflict but a metaphorical examination of the human struggle to find meaning in a seemingly meaningless universe.

Conclusion

In the end, Rust Cohle's philosophy in 'True Detective' is a bleak yet profound exploration of existential nihilism. His worldview, his pessimistic attachment to work, and his status as an übermensch all contribute to his complex and compelling character. Through Rust, the series invites us to confront the harsh realities of life, encourage us to face our suffering head-on, and ultimately, to question the very nature of our existence.