Critically examine the following statements in about 150 words each: (c) “The First World War did not produce just political consequences, it also had a deep impact on the ways of thinking."

The First World War undeniably triggered a seismic shift in human thought, moving beyond immediate political ramifications to instigate fundamental changes in philosophy, psychology, literature, and art.

Philosophical Shifts and Existentialism

• Undermining Rationalism and Optimism: The war exposed the dark irrationality of human nature and the destructive potential of modern technology, severely challenging Enlightenment ideals of rationalism and inevitable progress. Thinkers questioned the capacity of humanity to make decisions for an "ever-better place to live."
• Rise of Existentialism and Nihilism: The devastation fostered skepticism towards traditional beliefs, leading to the rise of philosophical movements like existentialism and nihilism. Existentialism emphasized individual freedom, responsibility, and the inherent meaninglessness of existence in a world devoid of inherent purpose, reflecting a broader disillusionment. Philosophers like Ludwig Wittgenstein explored language and logic in new ways.
• Questioning Traditional Morality: The extreme violence and ethical dilemmas of the war forced a re-evaluation of moral frameworks and the concept of "just war." The idea of the "sanctity of life" gained prominence as the costs of war rose in public perception.

Psychological Impact and Understanding of Trauma

• Recognition of "Shell Shock": WWI marked the first time that the psychological trauma of warfare was formally recognized, leading to the widespread identification of "shell shock" (now understood as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD). This spurred significant changes in psychiatry and the approach to mental health conditions.
• Shattered Innocence and Alienation: Soldiers returning from the front often experienced profound psychological scars, feeling alienated from a civilian world that could not comprehend their experiences. This led to repressed pain and trauma that impacted future generations.

Literary and Artistic Responses

• Emergence of Modernism: The disillusionment catalyzed the emergence of modernism in literature and art, characterized by a break with traditional forms, a rejection of romanticism, and a focus on the interior world and fragmented reality. Artists like Marc Chagall remarked that "The war was another plastic work that totally absorbed us, which reformed our forms, destroyed the lines, and gave a new look to the universe."
• Anti-War Literature: A new genre of anti-war literature emerged, vividly portraying the horrors and futility of conflict, in stark contrast to earlier patriotic narratives. Authors like Wilfred Owen and Erich Maria Remarque (with his novel All Quiet on the Western Front) captured the grim reality.
• Artistic Movements: Movements like Dadaism and Surrealism, with their rejection of logic and reason, were direct responses to the perceived absurdity and irrationality of the war.

Social Thought and Changing Attitudes

• Challenging Nationalism and Heroism: The prolonged industrial warfare challenged prevailing notions of nationalism, heroism, and citizenship. The idea of collective sacrifice was re-examined in the face of mass casualties.
• Rise of Anti-War Movements: The war acted as a catalyst for a widespread belief that the institution of war should be abandoned, leading to increased anti-war agitation and a desire to prevent future large-scale conflicts.
• Shifts in Gender Roles: While not directly a "way of thinking," the war's demands on society, including women taking on roles traditionally held by men, profoundly influenced perceptions of gender capabilities and equality, strengthening feminist movements.