What is Existentialism?

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  • “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” – Søren Kierkegaard
  • “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
  • “Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.” – Jean-Paul Sartre
  • “Existence precedes essence.” – Jean-Paul Sartre
  • “The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion.” – Albert Camus
  • “In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” – Albert Camus
  • “One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman.” – Simone de Beauvoir

Table of Contents: (Click any link below to navigate to that section.)

  1. What is Existentialism?
  2. Expound on a few of the key notions within Existentialism.
  3. Give a brief introduction to the most influential Existentialist philosophers.
  4. Provide 12 notable quotes from Existentialist philosophers.
  5. Create a 5-item quiz on the discussion above with answers at the end.
    1. Existentialism Quiz
  6. Provide 12 discussion questions relevant to the content above.

What is Existentialism?

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and subjective experience. It emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily in Europe. The movement is often associated with the idea that life has no inherent meaning, and it is up to each individual to create meaning for themselves through their actions and choices.

Key themes in existentialist thought include the notion of existential angst or dread, arising from the individual’s realization of their freedom and the responsibility it entails; the absurd, referring to the conflict between human tendency to seek inherent value and meaning in life and the silent, indifferent universe that offers none; and authenticity, the challenge of living in accordance with one’s self-defined essence in a world that imposes its own constructs and values.

Prominent existentialist philosophers include Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus. While Kierkegaard and Nietzsche are considered precursors to the movement, Sartre and Beauvoir explicitly labeled their philosophies as existentialist. Each thinker contributed distinct perspectives to the existentialist discourse, but all centered on the individual’s confrontation with the existential conditions of freedom, choice, and the inherent meaninglessness of the universe.

Existentialism has influenced various fields outside philosophy, including literature, theology, psychology, and the arts, underscoring its impact on 20th-century thought and beyond.

Existentialism is a philosophical school of thought that emphasizes the individual’s experience of existence. Here are some central ideas of existentialism:

  • Individuality: There is no pre-defined meaning in life. Each person is free to create their own meaning and purpose.
  • Free Will: Humans have free will and are responsible for the choices they make. This freedom can be a source of anxiety, as we grapple with the weight of our choices.
  • Authenticity: Living an “authentic” life means living according to your values and choices, even if they are unconventional.
  • Absurdity: The universe itself has no inherent meaning. It is up to us to find meaning in our existence.

Some famous existentialist thinkers include Søren Kierkegaard, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Albert Camus.

Existentialism can be a complex philosophy, but it can also be a helpful way to think about the challenges and opportunities of human existence.

Expound on a few of the key notions within Existentialism.

Certainly, let’s delve deeper into a few key notions within Existentialism:

  1. Existential Angst and Dread: Existential angst, or the feeling of dread, is a fundamental concept in existentialist philosophy. It refers to the deep-seated anxiety and unease one feels when confronting the freedom and responsibility of making meaningful choices in an apparently indifferent or absurd universe. This angst arises from the realization that one’s choices are not grounded in any absolute moral or ethical code, but are instead up to the individual to determine. Kierkegaard and Heidegger notably discuss this concept, highlighting the emotional and psychological weight of living authentically and making choices that define one’s essence.
  2. The Absurd: Central to the existentialist viewpoint, especially in the works of Albert Camus, is the concept of the absurd. The absurd arises from the human tendency to seek meaning and order in life, coupled with the universe’s apparent indifference to this quest. Camus argues that recognizing the absurdity of attempting to find or ascribe meaning where there is none leads to a sense of liberation. This recognition allows individuals to live with a heightened sense of freedom and authenticity, embracing life’s experiences without recourse to false hopes or illusions of meaning.
  3. Authenticity: Authenticity is a crucial existentialist theme, particularly in the philosophies of Sartre and Heidegger. It involves living in a way that is true to one’s own values, beliefs, and desires, rather than conforming to external pressures or societal norms. This entails a sincere engagement with one’s freedom, making choices that reflect one’s true self or essence. Authenticity is contrasted with inauthenticity, where an individual lives unreflectively or in accordance with the expectations of others, thus failing to exercise their freedom or to acknowledge their responsibility for defining their essence.
  4. Freedom and Responsibility: At the heart of existentialism is the affirmation of the individual’s radical freedom to choose and shape their own destiny. However, this freedom is inextricably linked with responsibility. Since there are no universal moral truths to guide human action, each person is responsible for their choices and must bear the moral weight of their actions. Sartre encapsulates this idea in his assertion that “existence precedes essence,” meaning that individuals first exist and then define their essence through their actions and choices. This perspective places a significant burden on individuals to live responsibly and authentically, recognizing that their choices define who they are.
  5. The Encounter with Nothingness: Existentialists often explore the theme of nothingness or the void, particularly in the context of death and the ultimate meaninglessness of life. Heidegger, for instance, discusses being-toward-death as a fundamental aspect of human existence, arguing that an authentic confrontation with one’s mortality can lead to a more genuine way of living. This confrontation with nothingness encourages individuals to live more fully in the present, embracing their freedom and the transient nature of existence.

These concepts interweave to form the rich tapestry of existentialist thought, which continues to influence contemporary discussions on freedom, meaning, and the human condition.

Here’s a deeper dive into two core existentialist notions:

  1. Anxiety and Freedom: Imagine yourself standing on a precipice. The wind whips around you, and the ground far below seems to disappear. This feeling of vertigo is a metaphor for existential anxiety in some existentialist thought, particularly that of Søren Kierkegaard.

Kierkegaard argues that anxiety arises from our inherent freedom. We are not bound by pre-ordained paths or destinies. This freedom is exhilarating, but also terrifying. We are completely responsible for carving our own paths, and this responsibility can be a heavy burden.

However, existentialists don’t see anxiety as purely negative. It can be a motivator, a push to take action and define ourselves through our choices.

  1. Absurdity and Meaning-Making: Imagine searching for a grand instruction manual for life, only to discover it doesn’t exist. This is the crux of the concept of absurdity in existentialism, as explored by Albert Camus. The universe itself offers no inherent meaning or purpose.

This absurdity can be paralyzing, but existentialists like Camus argue that it can also be liberating. If there’s no pre-set meaning, then we are free to create our own. We can rebel against the absurdity by actively engaging with the world and forging our own values and goals.

Authenticity emerges from confronting these notions. By accepting our freedom and the absurdity of existence, we can strive to create a meaningful life through our choices and actions. This is a core tenet of existentialism, and it grapples with the question: how do we live a genuine life in a world that offers no inherent meaning?

Give a brief introduction to the most influential Existentialist philosophers.

Certainly, here’s a brief introduction to some of the most influential existentialist philosophers:

  1. Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855):
  • Often regarded as the father of existentialism, Kierkegaard’s works laid the groundwork for many existentialist themes. He emphasized the importance of individual subjectivity, the necessity of making authentic choices in the face of uncertainty, and the role of faith in confronting existential dilemmas. His concept of “leap of faith” influenced later existentialists and existential thought in general.
  1. Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900):
  • Nietzsche’s critiques of traditional morality, religion, and the concept of objective truth profoundly influenced existentialist thinking. He famously declared the “death of God,” arguing that traditional sources of meaning and value had become obsolete, leaving humanity to create its own values. His ideas about the affirmation of life, the will to power, and the concept of the Übermensch (Overman) continue to be significant in existentialist discourse.
  1. Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980):
  • Sartre is perhaps the most prominent figure associated with existentialism in the 20th century. In his major work “Being and Nothingness,” he explores themes such as radical freedom, responsibility, and the nature of consciousness. Sartre famously proclaimed that “existence precedes essence,” emphasizing the idea that individuals create their own essence through their actions and choices. His concept of “bad faith” describes the self-deceptive ways individuals avoid acknowledging their freedom and responsibility.
  1. Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986):
  • A close associate of Sartre, de Beauvoir made significant contributions to existentialist philosophy, particularly in feminist thought. Her groundbreaking work “The Second Sex” examines the lived experiences of women and the ways in which patriarchal society constrains their freedom. De Beauvoir’s concept of “the other” and her exploration of freedom, ethics, and social structures have had a lasting impact on existentialist and feminist theory.
  1. Albert Camus (1913-1960):
  • Camus is known for his philosophy of the absurd, which he articulated in works such as “The Myth of Sisyphus” and novels like “The Stranger” and “The Plague.” He argued that life is inherently meaningless, but individuals can find purpose and freedom in embracing this absurdity and living with integrity and rebellion against the absurdity of existence. Camus’s ideas about the human condition, moral responsibility, and the pursuit of authenticity continue to resonate in existentialist discourse.

These philosophers, among others, have shaped existentialist thought and continue to influence diverse fields, including philosophy, literature, psychology, and social theory.

Here’s a quick introduction to some of the most influential existentialist philosophers:

  • Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855): Often considered the “father of existentialism,” Kierkegaard emphasized individual choice and freedom in creating personal meaning. He explored anxiety as a response to this freedom and the importance of “faith leaps” towards commitment.
  • Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900): Though not a strict existentialist himself, Nietzsche’s ideas on overcoming traditional morality and embracing individual will strongly influenced the movement. His concept of “Übermensch” (superman) refers to individuals who create their own values.
  • Martin Heidegger (1889-1976): Heidegger focused on human existence (Dasein) and our experience of being-in-the-world. He explored themes of anxiety, authenticity, and our relationship with Being itself.
  • Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980): A prominent 20th-century figure, Sartre argued that “existence precedes essence,” meaning we exist first and define ourselves through our choices. He explored freedom and responsibility in his famous work “Being and Nothingness.”
  • Albert Camus (1913-1960): Camus focused on the concept of absurdity, the idea that the universe has no inherent meaning. However, he argued that we can rebel against this absurdity by creating our own meaning through action and living authentically.
  • Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986): A close associate of Sartre, de Beauvoir applied existentialist ideas to feminist thought. Her book “The Second Sex” explored the concept of “The Other” and the ways women have been defined by the male gaze.

This is just a brief overview, and there are many other important existentialist thinkers. Each philosopher has their own unique take on core existential themes, making it a rich and diverse school of thought.

Provide 12 notable quotes from Existentialist philosophers.

Certainly, here are 12 notable quotes from existentialist philosophers:

  1. Søren Kierkegaard:
  • “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”
  1. Friedrich Nietzsche:
  • “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.”
  • “God is dead. God remains dead. And we have killed him.”
  1. Jean-Paul Sartre:
  • “Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.”
  • “Existence precedes essence.”
  1. Simone de Beauvoir:
  • “One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman.”
  • “I am too intelligent, too demanding, and too resourceful for anyone to be able to take charge of me entirely. No one knows me or loves me completely. I have only myself.”
  1. Albert Camus:
  • “The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion.”
  • “In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”
  1. Martin Heidegger:
  • “Being-in-the-world is a structure of existence which is characterized by its essentially open character.”
  • “Thinking begins only when we have come to know that reason, glorified for centuries, is the stiff-necked adversary of thought.”
  1. Franz Kafka (often associated with existentialist themes):
  • “In the struggle between yourself and the world, second the world.”
  • “You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait, be quiet, still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked, it has no choice, it will roll in ecstasy at your feet.”
  1. Gabriel Marcel:
  • “The primary effect of every existential decision is to transform the subject who chooses, not only at the moment of choice but also throughout his entire existence.”

These quotes capture the essence of existentialist thought, touching on themes such as freedom, responsibility, authenticity, and the human condition.

  1. “Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.” – Søren Kierkegaard
  2. “What matters is not what they call you, but what you answer to.” – Søren Kierkegaard
  3. “That which does not kill me, makes me stronger.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
  4. “Become who you are!” – Friedrich Nietzsche
  5. “Anguish is the dizziness of freedom.” – Søren Kierkegaard
  6. “Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.” – Jean-Paul Sartre
  7. “Existence precedes essence.” – Jean-Paul Sartre
  8. “The absurd is the relationship of man with the world.” – Albert Camus
  9. “I revolt, therefore I am.” – Albert Camus
  10. “One is not born, but rather becomes, woman.” – Simone de Beauvoir
  11. “It is not the question of becoming something; it is the question of being.” – Simone de Beauvoir
  12. “We are all fashioned of the same dust, but we are not all molded alike.” – Martin Heidegger

Create a 5-item quiz on the discussion above with answers at the end.

Existentialism Quiz:

  1. Who is often regarded as the father of existentialism?
    a) Friedrich Nietzsche
    b) Jean-Paul Sartre
    c) Søren Kierkegaard
    d) Albert Camus
  2. Which existentialist philosopher famously declared the “death of God”?
    a) Simone de Beauvoir
    b) Martin Heidegger
    c) Friedrich Nietzsche
    d) Gabriel Marcel
  3. According to Jean-Paul Sartre, what precedes essence?
    a) Freedom
    b) Responsibility
    c) Existence
    d) Consciousness
  4. Which existentialist philosopher explored the concept of the absurd and the idea of living authentically in the face of meaninglessness?
    a) Martin Heidegger
    b) Simone de Beauvoir
    c) Albert Camus
    d) Franz Kafka
  5. Who wrote the influential work “The Second Sex,” which examines the experiences of women from an existentialist perspective?
    a) Simone de Beauvoir
    b) Jean-Paul Sartre
    c) Friedrich Nietzsche
    d) Albert Camus

Answers:

  1. c) Søren Kierkegaard
  2. c) Friedrich Nietzsche
  3. c) Existence
  4. c) Albert Camus
  5. a) Simone de Beauvoir

Existentialism Quiz

Test your knowledge of existentialist thought!

  1. According to existentialism, who is ultimately responsible for creating meaning in life?
  2. Which existentialist philosopher is known for the concept of “absurdity”?
  3. The idea that “existence precedes essence” means: a) We are born with a predetermined purpose. b) We define ourselves through our choices and actions. c) There is no inherent meaning in the universe.
  4. Existentialism is characterized by a focus on: a) Finding comfort in tradition. b) Individual freedom and responsibility. c) Obeying a set of universal moral codes.
  5. What is a common theme in existentialist writings? a) Living a carefree and impulsive life. b) Anxiety arising from freedom and meaning-making. c) Accepting fate and predetermined destiny.

Answers:

  1. (c) The Individual
  2. (b) Albert Camus
  3. (b) We define ourselves through our choices and actions.
  4. (b) Individual freedom and responsibility.
  5. (b) Anxiety arising from freedom and meaning-making.

Provide 12 discussion questions relevant to the content above.

Certainly, here are 12 discussion questions relevant to the content on existentialism:

  1. How do existentialist philosophers define the concept of freedom, and what role does it play in shaping human existence?
  2. Discuss the significance of the idea that “existence precedes essence” in Jean-Paul Sartre’s philosophy. How does this concept relate to individual freedom and responsibility?
  3. In what ways does existential angst or dread manifest in everyday life, and how do existentialist thinkers propose to confront or navigate this feeling?
  4. Explore the concept of authenticity in existentialism. What does it mean to live authentically, and why is it considered crucial in existentialist thought?
  5. How do existentialist philosophers address the question of meaning in life, particularly in the face of the apparent absurdity and meaninglessness of existence?
  6. Analyze the role of choice and responsibility in existentialist ethics. How do individuals navigate moral dilemmas in a world without objective moral standards?
  7. Discuss the influence of existentialist ideas on fields outside philosophy, such as literature, psychology, and theology. Provide examples of how existentialist themes are expressed in these disciplines.
  8. Compare and contrast the existentialist views of Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche on the nature of existence, freedom, and the search for meaning.
  9. How do existentialist philosophers address the tension between individual freedom and social conformity? Can one be authentically oneself while still adhering to societal norms?
  10. Explore the existentialist perspective on the nature of human relationships and interpersonal connections. How do existentialist thinkers view the role of others in shaping individual identity and existence?
  11. Discuss the feminist existentialism of Simone de Beauvoir. How does she critique traditional gender roles and advocate for women’s freedom and autonomy?
  12. Reflect on the relevance of existentialist ideas in contemporary society. Do you think existentialism still offers valuable insights into the human condition in the 21st century? Why or why not?
  1. Do you believe humans have inherent meaning in life, or do we create our own? Why?
  2. Imagine yourself completely free of societal expectations and pressures. What choices would you make to define your life? Would this freedom be exhilarating or terrifying?
  3. Existentialists grapple with anxiety as a response to freedom. Have you ever experienced this kind of anxiety? If so, how did you deal with it?
  4. The concept of absurdity suggests the universe has no inherent meaning. Does this idea make life seem pointless, or liberating? Explain your answer.
  5. How can we create a meaningful life in a world that may not have predetermined meaning?
  6. Existentialism emphasizes individual responsibility. Is this an important concept in today’s society? Why or why not?
  7. Søren Kierkegaard uses the metaphor of a “leap of faith.” Can you think of a time you took a leap of faith in your own life? What was the outcome?
  8. Jean-Paul Sartre famously stated “existence precedes essence.” How does this concept influence how we view ourselves and others?
  9. Albert Camus argues that we can rebel against the absurdity of life. What are some ways we can create meaning and purpose through action?
  10. Simone de Beauvoir explored existentialist ideas through a feminist lens. How can existentialism be applied to social justice issues?
  11. Some people find comfort in tradition and established belief systems. How does existentialism compare to these perspectives?
  12. Existentialist ideas can be seen in literature and film. Can you think of any examples where characters grapple with themes of freedom, responsibility, or the search for meaning?

Table of Contents: (Click any link below to navigate to that section.)

  1. What is Existentialism?
  2. Expound on a few of the key notions within Existentialism.
  3. Give a brief introduction to the most influential Existentialist philosophers.
  4. Provide 12 notable quotes from Existentialist philosophers.
  5. Create a 5-item quiz on the discussion above with answers at the end.
    1. Existentialism Quiz
  6. Provide 12 discussion questions relevant to the content above.

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Phil Stilwell

Phil picked up a BA in Philosophy a couple of decades ago. He occasionally teaches philosophy and critical thinking courses in university and industry. He is joined here by ChatGPT 4, GEMINI, and CLAUDE, his far more intelligent AI friends. The four of them discuss and debate a wide variety of philosophical topics I think you’ll enjoy.

Phil curates the content and guides the discussion, primarily through questions. At times there are disagreements, and you may find the banter interesting.

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