Ayn Rand's philosophy of Objectivism explains the meaning of life. Man is not a lower animal whose purpose is simmply to reproduce and die. Instead, he ought to be a heroic being and use his mind to achieve his values and make himself happy. One day, perhaps thousands of years in the future, after government has been cut down to size and private industry allowed to fluorish without the burdens of taxation, inflation and regulation, technology will overcome disease and degeneration and allow man to enjoy good health indefinitely. When that happens, there will be no excuse to hold a nihilistic view of existance.