Have you ever found yourself wondering what to call those people who are obsessed with the end of the world? The kind of folks who stockpile canned goods, have escape plans for zombie apocalypses, or are constantly checking the news for signs of impending doom? They’re a pretty fascinating bunch. You might think the answer is simply “paranoid,” but there’s actually a more nuanced and specific term for them. Let’s talk about Doomsday people and the many layers of complexity that come with this intriguing subset of society.
Survivalists vs. Preppers: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to the end of the world, there are two main types of people who take this very, very seriously: survivalists and preppers. While both groups are concerned with preparedness, the motivations and methods can be quite different.
Survivalists
Survivalists are individuals who prioritize self-sufficiency and the ability to live off the land. They often focus on acquiring skills and knowledge that will enable them to survive in the wild. Think of them as modern-day pioneers. Their gear likely includes items like hunting rifles, fishing kits, and water purification systems. They emphasize learning practical skills such as:
- Hunting and trapping
- Fire-starting techniques
- Building shelters
- Navigating using natural landmarks
Preppers
Preppers, on the other hand, often take a more domestic approach to readiness. They generally focus on stockpiling supplies and ensuring that their homes are fortresses of safety. Rarely will you find a prepper who isn’t well-acquainted with the various forms of canned goods available in the local market. Their stocks often include:
- Non-perishable food
- Medical supplies
- Water reserves
- Generators
Common Ground
Despite their differences, survivalists and preppers share some common traits. Both types of people tend to be highly organized and meticulous. They read extensively about possible scenarios and often participate in online forums or attend meetings to swap tips and strategies.
Different Types of Doomsday Scenarios
When you dig deeper into the psyche of Doomsday people, you’ll find that they aren’t all worried about the same thing. Here’s a lowdown on the diverse theories that keep them up at night.
Natural Disasters
Some are convinced that Mother Nature will be our undoing. Earthquakes, supervolcanoes, tsunamis, and hurricanes are high on their list. They study patterns and historical data to predict when and where the next big one will hit.
Economic Collapse
Others are certain that money will be the death of us all. An economic collapse is their greatest fear. They keep a very close eye on global markets and often invest in tangible assets like gold and silver. In their minds, paper money is as flammable as, well, paper.
Pandemic
Even before COVID-19 made ‘pandemic’ a household term, there were those who dedicated their lives to prepping for a global health crisis. These individuals stockpile medical masks, hand sanitizers, and even hazmat suits. They probably looked a lot less eccentric in 2020 than they did in 2019.
War and Political Unrest
Whether it’s a civil war or a nuclear apocalypse, some people are convinced that war is just around the corner. They often take an avid interest in geopolitical news, tracking military movements and storing information on safe zones and escape routes.
Technological Failures
Others believe that technology will be our downfall, either through a massive cyber-attack or a catastrophic electronic failure like an EM Pulse (EMP). These are the folks who understand the workings of the grid better than some utility company employees.
Psychological Factors at Play
Why do people obsess over Doomsday scenarios? You might wonder if there’s some psychological wiring that makes one more inclined to be a prepper or survivalist.
Fear and Anxiety
Uncertainty is a potent driver of fear and anxiety. For many, prepping becomes a way to channel that anxiety into something tangible. It’s like an anxious person somewhere decided that organizing a bomb shelter was more productive than biting their nails.
Sense of Control
Prepping can give individuals a sense of control over uncontrollable situations. When the world seems chaotic, knowing that you’ve got 100 cans of baked beans in the basement can feel pretty empowering. It’s a way of cultivating peace of mind.
Community and Belonging
There’s also a social aspect to consider. Forums, conventions, and clubs dedicated to Doomsday prepping offer a sense of community. It’s a place where people with similar anxieties can support each other and share resources and knowledge.
Cultural Portrayal and Media Influence
Movies, books, and television have had a field day with Doomsday scenarios. Pop culture has not only mirrored societal fears but has also magnified and popularized them.
Apocalyptic Films
Movies like “Mad Max,” “The Day After Tomorrow,” and “28 Days Later” have brought Apocalyptic scenarios into the mainstream. These films don’t just entertain; they also provide a conceptual framework for what Doomsday might look like.
Television Shows
Shows like “Doomsday Preppers” and “Survivorman” have given viewers a front-row seat to the lives and practices of preppers and survivalists. These shows normalize and even glamorize the concept of being self-sufficient and prepared for the worst.
Literature
Books have long explored the theme of apocalypse, from Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road” to the classic “1984” by George Orwell. These stories often delve into the human condition, exploring how people cope with extreme situations.
Ethical and Moral Considerations
It’s worth asking whether this focus on Doomsday preparedness is inherently ethical. Some argue that these practices can foster a sense of selfishness and hoarding, rather than community support.
Hoarding vs. Sharing
In a crisis, should resources be shared or hoarded? Doomsday preppers often prioritize individual and family survival over community welfare. This can raise ethical questions, especially in scenarios where resources become exceedingly scarce.
Misinformation
Another moral consideration is the spread of misinformation. Fear-based prepping often hinges on worst-case scenarios that may not be supported by reliable data. This can lead to unnecessary panic and poor decision-making.
Real-Life Events That Have Inspired Prepper Movements
Throughout history, certain events have either created or amplified the desire to prepare for the end of the world.
The Cold War
The Cold War era saw an increase in bomb shelters and survival kits. The looming threat of nuclear warfare made Doomsday prepping almost a national pastime in some countries.
Y2K Bug
The turn of the millennium came with the Y2K scare, where many believed that computer systems would fail globally, leading to chaos. While it turned out to be much ado about nothing, it did spike an interest in being prepared for technological failures.
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes like Katrina and devastating earthquakes around the world have shown people that being prepared is not just a hobby, but sometimes a necessity. These events often bring prepper philosophies into the mainstream consciousness.
Practical Tips for Everyday Preparedness
Alright, maybe you’re not planning to build a subterranean bunker, but being a little prepared never hurt anyone. Here are some practical tips for basic readiness that don’t scream “I belong on a prepper show!”
Emergency Kit
Everyone should have a basic emergency kit that includes:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| First Aid Kit | Treat minor injuries |
| Flashlight | Reliable light source |
| Batteries | Power for electronics |
| Non-perishable food | Sustenance |
| Water bottles | Hydration |
| Multi-tool | Versatile utility |
| Local maps | Navigation in case of GPS failure |
Communication Plan
Have a simple communication plan in case of emergencies. Know the local emergency numbers and have a list of contacts you can reach out to. Also, consider having some form of a backup communication device.
Financial Readiness
Keep some cash on hand. In case of an electrical outage, ATMs and credit cards might not be an option. Having cash ensures you’re not completely at a loss if technology fails you.
Basic Skills
Learning a few key skills can be a huge asset. Consider taking a first aid course, learning how to start a fire without matches, or picking up some basic mechanical skills. Skills are just as valuable as physical assets in times of crisis.
Conclusion
So, what are Doomsday people called? Well, it turns out they go by many names—survivalists, preppers, sometimes just “really concerned citizens.” While their motivations and methods can vary widely, they all share a deep-seated desire for preparedness in the face of uncertainty. Whether you think they’re visionaries or alarmists probably depends on where you stand on the whole impending-doom spectrum.
In the end, maybe the Doomsday people aren’t as far off the mark as we’d like to believe. Being prepared, if not for the end of the world, then at least for a rough couple of days, seems like a pretty sensible idea. And who knows? That box of baked beans you bought “just in case” might end up making a great chili someday.
