Why Has Mankind Always Been "Fascinated" By The Apocalypse Concept?
By pyewacket
@pyewacket (43903)
United States
March 14, 2013 1:40am CST
One of the things I'm puzzled about is why from time memorial, mankind has had a sort of "weird" fascination with the "End Of The World" or "Apocalypse" concept. It doesn't matter seemingly what race, culture or religion a person belongs to, since all seem to have this same mutual concept that the world is going to end, the end is near or all this other dire, rather negative viewpoint.
Since I'm a history buff I couldn't help notice that throughout time, mankind has always "predicted" an end of the world, and of course many religions do also. Who can forget the Christian evangelist, Harold Camping who "predicted" that the end of the world was to take place May 21, 2012? Well May 21, 2012 came and went, and we were still here. Then he said, no the real end of the world was October 21, 2012..uh, well that date came and went too. We're still here. 
Then of course are supposed to be "signs" of the end of the world....and in our time it could be the rising natural events...more earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes. We look around us in general and there seems to be more "chaos" in the world. But is it really? From a "geological" and more scientific explanation all the natural events are just that...natural, we by no means live on a stable planet but is constantly changing. As for the negative events in general that are happening in the world, we are no doubt more aware of what is going on due to the media.
Anyway, my question again...why are we so fascinated by the idea of the world's end? Some of the biggest bestselling novels and blockbuster movies also address the issue..I mean is it like a death wish...do we WANT the world to end? 
Then of course are supposed to be "signs" of the end of the world....and in our time it could be the rising natural events...more earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes. We look around us in general and there seems to be more "chaos" in the world. But is it really? From a "geological" and more scientific explanation all the natural events are just that...natural, we by no means live on a stable planet but is constantly changing. As for the negative events in general that are happening in the world, we are no doubt more aware of what is going on due to the media.
Anyway, my question again...why are we so fascinated by the idea of the world's end? Some of the biggest bestselling novels and blockbuster movies also address the issue..I mean is it like a death wish...do we WANT the world to end? 7 people like this
17 responses
@kprofgames (3091)
• United States
14 Mar 13
What? You don't have your doomsday preppers kit ready??? I'm about done with my cave, just need to steal enforce it and the solar powered electric fence is in place all ready to go. 
Have seen the growing trend in this and not sure if it's really a 'sign' or is it just a way for people to re-evaluate what they're doing. Live better, love thy neighbor, etc, so on and so forth.
Maybe it's just a big marketing ploy to get your shyt together. 
Good to see you btw.
Have seen the growing trend in this and not sure if it's really a 'sign' or is it just a way for people to re-evaluate what they're doing. Live better, love thy neighbor, etc, so on and so forth.
Maybe it's just a big marketing ploy to get your shyt together.
Good to see you btw.3 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
Glad to be here again
I almost forgot about that other "doomsday" prediction...remember the December 21st thing associated with the Mayan Calendar? There was a joke circulating around about that....that the reason the Mayan Calendar ended on December 21, 2012 was that they ran out of room
I almost forgot about that other "doomsday" prediction...remember the December 21st thing associated with the Mayan Calendar? There was a joke circulating around about that....that the reason the Mayan Calendar ended on December 21, 2012 was that they ran out of room1 person likes this
@AmbiePam (85637)
• United States
14 Mar 13
You're so right. And the preachers who actually predict the end of the world are so nuts. I mean the Bible they claim to believe says that no man knows the time God will come back. So why in the world would they constantly predict the end of the world? Insane.3 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
LOL--I'm almost waiting for that one preacher/evangelist to come out with a new date for the "end"
1 person likes this
@Lakota12 (42600)
• United States
14 Mar 13
Well there is the one that says the world when end as we know it which to me means that we will still be here but something else will happen and could be happeing now with all the junk that Obama is doing which could change our world that we live to the worst possible scene like America becomes a 3rd world instead of what AMerica stands for .
I am oping this dont happen at all that someone will stop this feller and any one else that is trying to change our world and cultures!
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
Many cultures have had beliefs in "transitional" periods, when in a sense the "world" does end of the old phase and goes into a new one....there's even the Book Of The Hopi, which has "four" different end of the world type of things
1 person likes this
@carmelanirel (20942)
• United States
14 Mar 13
I think there are two possible reasons. One, some are concerned that they will "see" the end of the world and are afraid. The other people who are fascinated because of the "new world" that is promised in the bible, along with no more pain and tears, it is something they look forward to. There might be other reasons, but that is all I can think of at 7 in the morning..
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
LOL--I almost forgot to add....one of the BIG dates that was supposed to be the "end" was December 21st, 2012 according to that Mayan Calendar....so that didn't even have anything to do with the bible..I think all cultures have some form of the end though maybe it could be looked upon as a "transition" phase of a new way of thinking or collective "consciousness"????
2 people like this
@carmelanirel (20942)
• United States
15 Mar 13
Didn't they have a different date for the Mayan "end of the world?" Because my husband made a deal with a friend of his to meet at the Mayans ruins on that date, but it was a different date than 12/21/2012. He couldn't make it anyways, not on the money we have..
As for a new transition, that is what I wonder, but I forgot to check into what kind of changes have been made since December. I personally look to Israel for signs of the times, so I knew there was no way the end was going to be last year, though I am seeing changes that is opening doors to more signs. Though I am not an expert on it, and could never explain it correctly, I know the end is not near.
As for a new transition, that is what I wonder, but I forgot to check into what kind of changes have been made since December. I personally look to Israel for signs of the times, so I knew there was no way the end was going to be last year, though I am seeing changes that is opening doors to more signs. Though I am not an expert on it, and could never explain it correctly, I know the end is not near.1 person likes this
@celticeagle (159227)
• Boise, Idaho
15 Mar 13
I know! I have been hearing the Apocalyse thing since I was in high school. People who are church goers and Bible reading have been hearing of this for years. Do we want the world to end? Not necessarily. It seems to be something that the Bible beleives will happen sooner or later. Doomsday Trekkers seems to believe this is going to happen at some time also. I think that the bottom line is that this is going to happen, not sure when, but smart to be aware and be ready.
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
I must have been living in a cave or something...I grew up in a Christian upbringing but never, ever heard any kind of doomsday or end of the world kind of thing..was just never "taught" it even when I went to Sunday School with my church....I would say it's only been the past five years I've heard about it..uh, I'm not "Christian" now though and haven't been for a good number of years
1 person likes this
@celticeagle (159227)
• Boise, Idaho
15 Mar 13
Well, I know it is in the Bible and I have heard it spouted out on the street corners when I was in high school. And I have watched the Notradomus documentaries and so forth on cable. They had a slue of them in December.
@Bentilo_Dalutag (37)
• Philippines
14 Mar 13
I don't know why you don't believe... everything has an end... are you not observing it. tell me a thing that doesn't end... Search... it seems your world is too small, explore my friend... but only God has no end if you believe in God.... =)
2 people like this
@peavey (16936)
• United States
15 Mar 13
pergammo, I personally think it's rather rude to respond to a newbie like that. And for the record, I don't understand why people think the world will go on forever, either. There is an end to everything except God Himself, as Bentilo_Dalutag said. 
But to each his/her own. We gain nothing by quibbling about who is rude and who isn't (as) rude.
But to each his/her own. We gain nothing by quibbling about who is rude and who isn't (as) rude.1 person likes this
@pergammano (7682)
• Canada
14 Mar 13
Welcome to myLot! I am hoping that there is a possibility that you are relatively new to the english language, and you are doing very well!
The manner in which you have replied is very easy to interpret as rude; suggesting that this writer's world is too small! Possibly you meant other things but the manner in which you have responded shows a great deal of dis- respect to a person that is very knowledgable..a very senior member of this community, and very well liked.
Enjoy your time here, and I would like to suggest you read the FAQ;s and Guidelines in blue at the bottom of the page, so that you can understand about confrontational responses.
1 person likes this
@Bentilo_Dalutag (37)
• Philippines
20 Mar 13
Apology Pergammano, i didn't mean to hurt your feeling... that's just my opinion... just like what you've said...im new to the english language. I think you post your topic for us to discuss...imagine its the entire world will be commenting for this... and sometimes you can't please everybody... and you said you are very knowledgeable, a senior, a very well liked from this community... hmmm.... it seems your just siding yourself....an egocentric person... i'm telling you this not to hurt you or anyone.. its just my opinion and observation from you... Im a friend. Sir... =) Let me leave this quote "Don't lean on your own understanding".
I like what Pyewacket said... for there's this book that said there will be new earth and heavens...a sense recyclable... =)
Peavey, i understand Pergammo's feeling... and should i say thanks for the enlightening... =)
@BarBaraPrz (45523)
• St. Catharines, Ontario
14 Mar 13
I don't think too many people want the world to end, but because we all die, they figure the world will, too. As the saying goes, Nobody gets out alive.
2 people like this
@pergammano (7682)
• Canada
14 Mar 13
Pye..I am truthfully an Ostrich, with it's head in the sand...I would have to say; "a let it be" type of person. I just feel it is out of my control, pay little or no attention...and make an effort to use my energies on things that I can make a difference in. Life is a sign of immortality, and we all know there is an end to our physical being here...so I have to just let it be! Sorry, I have no huge philosophical input to this great discussion!
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
Sometimes though with the way the world is now, and how destructive mankind has been in general, like gee, maybe the end of the world wouldn't be so bad???? Our species has proven to be the most "Un-intelligent" one in my opinion
1 person likes this
@pergammano (7682)
• Canada
15 Mar 13
I concur completely with "un-intelligent" and that is what gives me so many other platforms to spend my energies on! There was a time, a while ago, quite a while ago..I did get caught up in all the doomsday hype, and I do think with our destruction, it will implode/explode, but worrying about it would mis=direct what I can attempt to do...to attempt to make a difference. If even just I, can lessen my footprint..and educate others, it might help!
Being a person, of scientific origins and learnings...how organic can you look at all of these predictions?
1 person likes this
@joliefille (3690)
• Philippines
14 Mar 13
I think it's because we get too attached that we need to be shaken up. We need to be reminded that nothing is permanent. I understand that some just really want to engender fear with news of the apocalypse.
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
I agree that nothing is permanent...things are constantly changing, even circumstances in our lives, just could never figure out the doom and gloom of the end of the world type thing.
@LetranKnight25 (33121)
• Philippines
14 Mar 13
Hello pyewacket, Because people don't like the life they life today that they wanted the world to end and so it can inspired them to live their lives every day inspired as it is their last day every day. the truth is that people who don't like to LIVE every day likes to put an end on their own.
I watch the end of the world movies, but some how i felt wasting my life for it because we all die one day, it's the matter on how we are ready for it. and right now, hehe am not ready for it
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
You know it's funny, but with the way mankind has treated this earth and the living beings on it, I sometimes often think, hey maybe the end of the world wouldn't be so bad.
1 person likes this
@nyssa102 (748)
• United States
25 Mar 13
Well, I love video games and I can tell you that that is a big theme in these games. Also, in Second life, that is another big theme. sometimes when people predict the end of the world, they get the benefit of people selling everything and giving it to the church. I sometimes it's scare tactics to get people to sell their goods in the name of god to the church. I really could not say, but it sometimes seems that way. I don't know why people are so into the world smashing apart. I never understood why those who were most religious wanted to have all this collapse occur. I love humanity, and the last thing I want is more suffering, if anything, I want my time here to stop suffering.
@randomarts09 (1405)
• Indonesia
3 Apr 13
I think because the end of the world is so mysterious so they are so interested and like to predict when it is. Even though no one should know when it will happen.
@robspeakman (1700)
•
14 Mar 13
I think, it is due to the fact that if Apocolypse or the End Of The World does actually occur - There is nothing we can do....
And that is fascinating
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Mar 13
I agree on that..if the "end of the world" really does happen it's not like we can do anything about it
1 person likes this
@antram38 (4)
• United States
18 Mar 13
I myself am a believer in christ or lord and savior too but I also believe in science. I believe that god gave us these gifts in his image therefore having the ability to envision the future of mankind.Some of these abilities are compounded by the fact we are made in his image. Many of you are right in the fact that we can't say the exact date of his coming. But it does say we will see signs that god will use to warn his flock. All in all its up too each and every person to decide what they believe in. Also great topic by the way nice to hear people talk about this subject. =)
@anime1990 (70)
• Philippines
15 Mar 13
People are curios in nature. They want to see what will happen if it's the end of the world not knowing what it can do to mankind and how this will affect our lives. One of the possible reasons may also attract people who believe in such things which drives their imagination to the highest level. They want to see if they can survive if such a thing will ever happen and how they will handle them.
This also piques their imaginative mind due to novels or movies on how to survive if this ever happens.
@divineangelspear (19)
• Philippines
15 Mar 13
My guess is that the idea alone is a great source of thrill for some people while for others the 'what-if' is enough to keep the ball rolling with plenty of mysteries. For it can only be confirmed once it happens right? Besides, there's only really a select few ideas that can ultimately, in reality, seem to affect all of us regardless if we care or not about it.
@Kjordo711 (51)
•
17 Mar 13
I think that it is an underlying fear that something could happen someday, some, slightly more likely than others. For example, there is the theory that one day, when the technology is sophisticated enough, there could be a revolution, where computer artificial intelligence is able to surpass everything we could ever imagine. Sort of like the movie Terminator, and the next one, and the one after that, and the one after that. Don't forget the one after that. :P (Slight Humor). But anyway, a factor in it could be the slight fear around it.
Also, the matter of curiosity is very important to consider. To just think about the End of the World instantly sparks questions. It sparks questions because it would be the end of everything. Just the thought of it drives people to be interested in it. Because naturally, everyone is curious of it.
