Existentialism is a philosophical movement emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and responsibility. It centers on the belief that humans create their own meaning and purpose in a meaningless universe.
Key Characteristics / Core Concepts
- Freedom and Responsibility: Existentialists highlight our radical freedom to choose and the ensuing responsibility for our actions.
- Existence precedes Essence: This core tenet suggests we are born into existence without a predetermined nature or purpose, unlike objects designed with a specific function (“essence”).
- Anguish and Anxiety: The freedom to choose and the awareness of our mortality lead to feelings of anguish and anxiety, but also the potential for authentic living.
- Subjectivity and Authenticity: Existentialism emphasizes individual experience and the importance of living authentically, in accordance with one’s own values and choices.
- Absurdity: The inherent conflict between our desire for meaning and the meaningless nature of existence is a key theme.
How It Works / Its Function
Existentialism isn’t a system of beliefs but a way of questioning our existence and making meaning in a world without inherent purpose. It encourages us to take ownership of our lives and create our own values.
Rather than seeking pre-defined answers, existentialism prompts self-reflection, leading to a more conscious and responsible way of being.
Examples
- Jean-Paul Sartre’s philosophy: Emphasized individual freedom and responsibility, arguing that “existence precedes essence.”
- Albert Camus’s “The Myth of Sisyphus”: Explored the absurdity of life and the need to rebel against it.
- Simone de Beauvoir’s “The Second Sex”: Analyzed the existential conditions of women in a patriarchal society.
Why is it Important? / Significance
Existentialism offers a powerful framework for understanding the human condition and navigating the complexities of life. It encourages self-awareness, personal responsibility, and the creation of meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.
It has had a significant impact on various fields, including literature, art, psychology, and even political thought.
Related Concepts
- Absurdism
- Nihilism
- Phenomenology
Existentialism encourages a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, prompting us to live authentically and responsibly.