Over the last few months, we have routinely brought readers’ attention to the rise of so-called ‘nihilistic violent extremism’ in America (here and here most recently):
Nihilistic violent extremism refers to acts of violence driven by a belief in the meaninglessness or futility of existence, often rejecting societal norms, values, or institutions.
It’s rooted in nihilism, a philosophy that denies inherent meaning or purpose in life, but when paired with violent extremism, it manifests as destructive acts aimed at disrupting or dismantling systems perceived as meaningless or oppressive.
Individuals or groups engaging in this type of extremism may target governments, communities, or symbols of authority, often with no clear alternative vision or goal beyond destruction.
Unlike ideological extremism (e.g., driven by religious or political motives), nihilistic violent extremism lacks a constructive agenda and may be fueled by despair, alienation, or a desire to impose chaos.
And now, as Jack Phillips reports via The Epoch Times, FBI Director Kash Patel has brought the term into the mainstream.
Patel confirmed on Tuesday that the bureau is investigating more than 1,700 domestic terrorism cases, as he was speaking before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
“We have 3500 international terrorism investigations … 1700 domestic terrorism investigations, a large chunk of which are nihilistic violent extremism … those who engage in violent acts motivated by a deep hatred of society,” Patel told lawyers in a prepared statement.
The FBI has experienced a “300% increase in cases opened this year alone versus the same time last year.”
Hellbound and Down 