Do Humans have an Essence?

“Sartre famously declared, “existence precedes essence,” which means that individuals first exist, encounter themselves, and emerge through life only to define themselves afterwards.”
“Nietzsche, for example, emphasizes the will to power and the creation of one’s own values as opposed to adhering to universal or inherent truths.”
“While existentialists recognize that humans have inherent dispositions, they argue that these do not constitute an immutable essence that dictates behavior. Instead, existential philosophy highlights the importance of individual freedom and the responsibility to live authentically.”
“Your existence—your being here and now—comes before any defined essence or nature. This means you have the freedom, though accompanied by the burden of responsibility, to shape who you are and how you engage with the world.”

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Dogs and cats clearly have distinct essences that force them into particular behaviors. Are there existentialists who claim we have no such similar essence?

Yes, existentialist philosophy often posits that humans differ fundamentally from animals in that humans are not bound by an inherent essence that predetermines their nature or behaviors. This idea is particularly associated with Jean-Paul Sartre, a leading figure in existentialism. Sartre famously declared, “existence precedes essence,” which means that individuals first exist, encounter themselves, and emerge through life only to define themselves afterwards. According to Sartre, this principle contrasts with the notion of a crafted object (like a knife or a book), which has an essence defined before its existence (i.e., its purpose and design are conceived prior to its making).

For animals, their essence, or nature, is often considered predetermined. They follow instinctual patterns that are specific to their species. For example, dogs and cats exhibit behaviors that are typical and predictable within their species. However, Sartre and other existentialists argue that humans are not subjected to such predetermined essence. Instead, humans have the freedom and responsibility to define their essence through their choices and actions. This freedom is both liberating and burdensome, as it places the weight of creating one’s identity and meaning in life squarely on the individual’s shoulders.

Other existentialists, such as Friedrich Nietzsche and Martin Heidegger, also explore themes related to existence, essence, and the nature of being, though their approaches and conclusions differ in various respects. Nietzsche, for example, emphasizes the will to power and the creation of one’s own values as opposed to adhering to universal or inherent truths. Heidegger focuses on the concept of “Being” and how understanding our existence can lead to a more authentic mode of living.

While these philosophers might not explicitly compare human essence with that of animals like dogs and cats, the overarching existentialist theme is that humans are unique in their capacity to shape their essence through living and choosing, rather than being confined to a specific nature or set of behaviors from birth.

You’re right that dogs and cats have very different natural tendencies. Dogs are pack animals, bred for companionship and tasks that require loyalty and trainability. Cats are solitary hunters, with a strong independent streak.

Existentialism is a philosophy that emphasizes the absurdity of life and the inherent freedom of humans. Some existentialists, like Jean-Paul Sartre, believed that humans are “condemned to be free” – we are born into an existence with no pre-defined purpose and we must create our own meaning through our choices and actions.

This concept goes against the idea of a pre-determined essence. Existentialists would argue that we are not defined by our instincts or inherent characteristics, but rather by the choices we make throughout our lives.

There are several psychological traits that seem to be intrinsic to humans. These include sociability and curiosity. Do existentialists claim these traits are not powerful drivers of human behavior? And do they acknowledge that departing from this human “essence” can be destructive?

Existentialists do acknowledge that humans possess tendencies or dispositions, such as sociability and curiosity, which can significantly influence behavior. However, they typically argue that these traits do not constitute an inescapable essence that rigidly defines what it means to be human in the same way that instincts define animal behavior. Rather, existentialists emphasize the role of individual freedom, choice, and responsibility in shaping one’s life and identity, even within the context of these inherent dispositions.

Jean-Paul Sartre, for example, might argue that while humans are predisposed to sociability and curiosity, the way these traits manifest in an individual’s life is a matter of choice and context. For Sartre, these predispositions do not limit the fundamental freedom of individuals to define their essence through their actions and decisions. The essence, in the existentialist view, is not a predetermined set of characteristics but something that each person constructs for themselves over time.

Regarding the idea that departing from human “essence” can be destructive, existentialists would likely focus on the notion of “bad faith” (mauvaise foi), a concept Sartre uses to describe the denial of one’s freedom and the evasion of responsibility by conforming to social roles or traditional norms without questioning them. In this sense, existentialists do recognize that failing to live authentically, which may involve ignoring or suppressing intrinsic human traits like sociability or curiosity, can lead to a form of self-alienation or existential distress.

Moreover, existentialists such as Martin Heidegger discuss the concept of “Being-towards-death” and how the authentic acknowledgment of one’s mortality can lead to a more genuine way of living. For Heidegger, ignoring intrinsic aspects of our being, such as the inevitability of death, can lead to inauthentic existence.

In summary, while existentialists recognize that humans have inherent dispositions, they argue that these do not constitute an immutable essence that dictates behavior. Instead, existential philosophy highlights the importance of individual freedom and the responsibility to live authentically, even as it acknowledges that ignoring or denying fundamental aspects of our being can lead to negative consequences. The challenge, from an existentialist perspective, is to navigate these dispositions in a way that is true to oneself, embracing freedom and the responsibility it entails.

Existentialists do acknowledge the existence of intrinsic human traits like sociability and curiosity. However, their view on these traits is nuanced:

They Don’t Deny Existence: Existentialists wouldn’t deny that humans are naturally curious or social creatures. These are aspects of our being.
They Emphasize Choice: However, existentialists argue that these traits don’t dictate our actions. We have the freedom to choose how to express them, or even choose to act against them to some degree. For example, a naturally curious person might choose a solitary life focused on internal reflection.
Focus on Meaning-Making: The existentialist perspective emphasizes how we use these traits to create meaning in our lives. Curiosity could lead to exploration, artistic expression, or scientific pursuits. Sociability could motivate forming connections, building communities, or engaging in activism.
Destructive Departures: Existentialists do acknowledge that neglecting these core traits can be destructive. Humans are social creatures who thrive on connection. Isolating oneself entirely could lead to loneliness and mental health issues. Similarly, suppressing natural curiosity could lead to a stagnant and unfulfilled life.

Here’s the key distinction: While these traits exist, existentialists believe we have the freedom to choose how we express them and what meaning we derive from them. We can let them guide us, fight against them, or find a balance. This freedom, though liberating, also creates anxiety – the anxiety of having to create our own meaning in an indifferent universe.

Existentialists like Sartre wouldn’t say these traits are not powerful drivers, but rather that they are starting points we use to navigate our own unique existence.

Provide 5 anecdotes of humans who effectively practiced existentialism.

Providing anecdotes about individuals who have effectively practiced existentialism involves highlighting how certain people have embraced existentialist principles such as freedom, choice, authenticity, and personal responsibility in their lives. Here are five individuals whose lives and actions reflect existentialist themes:

Jean-Paul Sartre: As a founding figure of existentialist philosophy, Sartre lived by his principles, most notably his belief in absolute freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. He famously declined the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1964, arguing that he consistently refused official honors and did not want to be “institutionalized.” Sartre’s life was a testament to his commitment to freedom, choice, and living according to one’s own standards rather than societal expectations.
Simone de Beauvoir: A prominent existentialist philosopher and feminist, de Beauvoir exemplified existentialist principles through her life and work. In her seminal book, “The Second Sex,” she explores the concept of “the other” and the constructed nature of female identity, urging women to assert their freedom and construct their own identities beyond societal roles. De Beauvoir lived her life unapologetically, challenging norms and expectations regarding women’s roles in society and academia.
Albert Camus: Although Camus himself did not identify as an existentialist, his works are often associated with existentialist themes. Camus’s philosophy of the absurd, as outlined in “The Myth of Sisyphus,” champions the idea of finding meaning in life despite its inherent absurdity. Camus lived through the French Resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II, actively engaging in the fight for freedom and justice, embodying the existential commitment to action and moral choice.
Viktor Frankl: A neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor, Frankl developed logotherapy, a form of existential analysis. His experiences in concentration camps led him to conclude that even in the most horrific conditions, individuals have the freedom to choose their attitude toward their circumstances. His book, “Man’s Search for Meaning,” recounts his experiences and his belief in the human capacity to find meaning in suffering, emphasizing personal responsibility to create meaning in one’s life.
Frida Kahlo: The Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, though not formally connected to existential philosophy, lived a life that embodies existential themes of suffering, authenticity, and self-expression. Despite enduring severe physical pain and emotional turmoil throughout her life, Kahlo expressed her struggles and experiences boldly through her art. Her work and life reflect a profound engagement with her own identity, pain, and the assertion of her freedom to express herself in unique and impactful ways.

These anecdotes illustrate how existentialist principles can manifest in diverse ways across different contexts and disciplines, emphasizing the universality of existential themes such as freedom, authenticity, and the search for meaning.

Viktor Frankl and Finding Meaning in Suffering: Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, is a prime example of existentialism in action. Imprisoned in concentration camps, he witnessed the worst of humanity. Yet, he clung to the idea that even in the face of unimaginable suffering, humans could find meaning. He developed Logotherapy, a therapy focusing on finding purpose in life, drawing on his own experiences.
Simone de Beauvoir: Redefining Womanhood: French philosopher Simone de Beauvoir challenged societal expectations of women. She rejected the notion of a pre-defined “essence” of womanhood and argued that women, like all humans, are free to define themselves through their choices. Her book The Second Sex became a cornerstone of feminist philosophy.
Albert Camus: The Absurd Hero: Albert Camus explored the concept of the “absurd” in his writings. He believed life inherently lacked meaning, but instead of succumbing to despair, humans could embrace this absurdity and create their own meaning through acts of rebellion and living authentically. His novel The Stranger follows a man who commits a seemingly senseless murder, highlighting the existential struggle for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.
John Coltrane: Pushing Boundaries in Music: Jazz saxophonist John Coltrane is an example of existential exploration through art. His career is marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of his music. This drive to constantly redefine himself and his art reflects the core existential idea of constant creation of meaning.
Malala Yousafzai: Choosing Freedom Over Fear: Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for female education, embodies existential courage. Despite threats and violence, she chose to advocate for her right and the right of others to education. This act of defiance against societal expectations and fear showcases the power of individual choice in creating a meaningful life.

These are just a few examples. Existentialism isn’t about a specific set of actions, but rather an approach to living. It’s about acknowledging the lack of inherent meaning and taking responsibility for creating your own purpose through your choices and actions.

I am dysfunctionally shy. Can I escape this “essence”?

Your question touches on a fundamental existentialist idea that essence is not fixed but is something we actively participate in creating through our choices and actions. According to existentialist thought, particularly as articulated by Jean-Paul Sartre, you are not doomed to remain in any fixed state of being, such as being dysfunctionally shy. Sartre’s famous assertion that “existence precedes essence” suggests that your existence—your being here and now—comes before any defined essence or nature. This means you have the freedom, though accompanied by the burden of responsibility, to shape who you are and how you engage with the world.

However, this process is not as simple as just deciding to be different. Real change often requires a deep understanding of oneself, possibly confronting painful truths or fears, and taking deliberate steps towards the kind of existence you wish to lead. It may involve seeking therapy, engaging in social skills training, gradually exposing oneself to feared social situations, and actively practicing new behaviors.

It’s also important to recognize that change can be challenging and may require time and patience. The existentialist perspective would not deny the difficulty of overcoming deeply ingrained patterns of behavior like shyness but would emphasize the individual’s capacity for agency and transformation.

Moreover, overcoming or managing shyness doesn’t have to mean rejecting it entirely or becoming someone entirely different. It could mean learning to navigate your shyness in a way that feels authentic and manageable to you, finding environments and communities where you feel more comfortable, or even using your sensitivity to your advantage in understanding and connecting with others on a deeper level.

From an existential viewpoint, your journey toward overcoming dysfunctionally shy behavior is not just about changing a single trait but involves embracing the freedom to define and continually redefine your essence. This path is deeply personal and can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling existence as you learn to live in a way that aligns with your values and desires, rather than being constrained by fear or preconceived limitations.

Existentialism would say you can definitely move past your shyness as a defining characteristic. Shyness, while strong, doesn’t have to be your essence. Here’s how existentialism might approach this:

Shyness as Choice: Existentialists would argue that shyness isn’t a force controlling you, but rather a pattern of behavior you’ve chosen (consciously or not) to rely on. You can choose to act differently.
Gradual Steps: Rather than trying to be completely outgoing overnight, start small. Set achievable goals, like making eye contact in conversations or introducing yourself to one new person a week. Celebrate your successes, no matter how minor.
Meaningful Interactions: Focus on why you want to overcome shyness. Is it to connect with others? Deepen friendships? These goals can motivate you through challenging moments.
You Are More Than Shy: Shyness is a part of you, but it doesn’t define you. Think about your strengths and passions. Let those shine through in social interactions.

Existentialism emphasizes freedom, but it’s not about comfort. Overcoming shyness will likely be uncomfortable at first. However, as you confront your shyness and take these steps, you’ll be creating your own meaning** of social connection and personal growth.

Here are some additional tips that might help you beyond the existentialist perspective:

Therapy: Consider seeking professional help from a therapist who specializes in social anxiety.
Social Groups: Join groups or clubs that focus on activities you enjoy. This can be a low-pressure way to meet new people with shared interests.
Practice Makes Progress: The more you expose yourself to social situations, the easier it will get.

Remember, overcoming shyness takes time and effort. But by taking steps and celebrating your progress, you can build a more fulfilling social life.

Create a 10-item quiz on the discussion above with answers at the end.

Sure, here’s a 10-item quiz based on our discussion on existentialism and related topics, including answers at the end:

Quiz

Who is credited with the phrase “existence precedes essence”?

A) Friedrich Nietzsche
B) Martin Heidegger
C) Jean-Paul Sartre
D) Albert Camus

What does the concept “existence precedes essence” imply for humans?

A) Our lives are predetermined.
B) We inherit our essence at birth.
C) We create our essence through our actions and choices.
D) Our essence is fixed and unchangeable.

Which existentialist philosopher argued that even in horrific conditions, individuals have the freedom to choose their attitude?

A) Simone de Beauvoir
B) Jean-Paul Sartre
C) Viktor Frankl
D) Friedrich Nietzsche

What is “bad faith” in existentialist philosophy?

A) The denial of death and its implications
B) The evasion of freedom and responsibility by conforming to social roles
C) A lack of faith in existentialist principles
D) The belief in an inherent human essence

Which of the following is NOT a theme commonly explored in existentialist philosophy?

A) The search for meaning
B) Authentic living
C) Adherence to traditional values
D) Individual freedom

What did Jean-Paul Sartre famously decline, demonstrating his commitment to existentialist principles?

A) The French Legion of Honor
B) The Nobel Prize in Literature
C) Presidency of France
D) A professorship at the Sorbonne

According to existentialism, what is the role of individual freedom?

A) To follow society’s expectations
B) To define one’s own essence and identity
C) To discover one’s predetermined essence
D) To accept one’s fate without question

How did Viktor Frankl’s experiences influence his existential analysis?

A) By proving the importance of wealth for happiness
B) By showing the impact of freedom on creativity
C) By emphasizing the human capacity to find meaning in suffering
D) By highlighting the role of education in existential thought

What existentialist concept involves the acknowledgment of one’s mortality and its impact on living authentically?

A) Being-towards-death
B) The absurd
C) Bad faith
D) The eternal return

Can an individual change an aspect of themselves such as being “dysfunctionally shy” according to existentialist philosophy?
- A) Yes, through societal validation
- B) No, because essence is fixed
- C) Yes, through personal choice and actions
- D) No, because it is genetically predetermined

Answers

C) Jean-Paul Sartre
C) We create our essence through our actions and choices.
C) Viktor Frankl
B) The evasion of freedom and responsibility by conforming to social roles
C) Adherence to traditional values
B) The Nobel Prize in Literature
B) To define one’s own essence and identity
C) By emphasizing the human capacity to find meaning in suffering
A) Being-towards-death
C) Yes, through personal choice and actions

Existentialism and You: A 10-Question Quiz

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

According to existentialism, what is the main difference between humans and animals? a) Humans have a pre-defined essence. b) Humans are free to create their own meaning. c) Humans are more social creatures. d) Humans are driven by stronger instincts.
What concept did Jean-Paul Sartre use to describe the human condition? a) The Absurd b) The Unconscious c) The Social Contract d) The Tabula Rasa
Existentialists would argue that our natural tendencies like curiosity: a) Dictate all of our actions. b) Play no role in shaping us. c) Are a starting point for us to build on. d) Should be completely suppressed.
Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, used existentialism to develop: a) Psychoanalysis b) Logotherapy c) Behaviorism d) Humanism
Simone de Beauvoir challenged the idea of a pre-defined: a) Social Class b) Political Identity c) Gender Role d) Religious Belief
In Albert Camus’ concept of the absurd, what do humans do in response to a meaningless world? a) Accept it and find comfort in routine. b) Embrace the lack of meaning and create their own. c) Seek guidance from religious authority. d) Blame society for the absurdity of life.
John Coltrane’s constant innovation in music reflects the existential idea of: a) The importance of tradition. b) Finding comfort in familiarity. c) The need for constant self-creation. d) The limitations of artistic expression.
Malala Yousafzai’s fight for education demonstrates the existential value of: a) Following societal expectations. b) Choosing freedom over fear. c) Accepting your pre-determined fate. d) Ignoring social injustice.
According to existentialism, overcoming shyness involves: a) Accepting it as your unchangeable essence. b) Gradually taking steps outside your comfort zone. c) Relying on medication to manage social anxiety. d) Avoiding social situations altogether.
The core idea of existentialism is: a) Finding happiness through pleasure. b) Living a life of complete freedom. c) Taking responsibility for creating your own meaning. d) Fulfilling the purpose assigned to you by society.

Answers:

Provide 15 discussion questions relevant to the content above.

How does Jean-Paul Sartre’s assertion that “existence precedes essence” challenge traditional views on human nature and identity?
In what ways do societal expectations and norms influence our sense of freedom and authenticity, according to existentialist thought?
Can the concept of “bad faith” be observed in modern society? Provide examples where individuals might be living in denial of their freedom and responsibility.
How does existentialism address the human need for meaning in the face of life’s inherent absurdity?
Discuss the relevance of Viktor Frankl’s ideas on finding meaning in suffering to contemporary challenges and personal adversity.
How does the existentialist emphasis on personal freedom and responsibility intersect with contemporary debates on mental health and therapy?
How do existentialist ideas about creating one’s essence through choices and actions impact our understanding of personality development?
Compare and contrast the existentialist perspective with other philosophical or psychological theories on human nature and the self.
How might embracing existentialist principles impact an individual’s approach to career, relationships, and personal goals?
In what ways can the acknowledgment of one’s mortality (Being-towards-death) lead to a more authentic way of living, according to Heidegger?
How do existentialist philosophers view the role of art and literature in exploring and expressing the human condition?
Discuss the implications of Simone de Beauvoir’s feminist existentialism on our understanding of gender roles and identity.
How can the principle of “existence precedes essence” serve as a guide for ethical decision-making and moral responsibility?
Explore the potential for existentialist philosophy to offer comfort or guidance in navigating existential crises or periods of significant change.
In the context of existentialism, how might an individual overcome challenges such as dysfunctionally shy behavior or other deeply ingrained traits?

Existentialism and You: 15 Discussion Prompts

Do you think existentialism offers a comforting or a challenging perspective on life? Why?
Can you think of examples from your own life where you’ve had to create meaning in a seemingly meaningless situation?
How do societal expectations influence our sense of self? How can existentialism help us challenge these expectations?
Some argue that existential freedom can be paralyzing. Do you agree? Why or why not?
Can technology or social media help us find meaning in life, or do they create distractions?
How does existentialism view the role of morality? Do we create our own moral codes, or are there universal ethical principles?
Viktor Frankl emphasized finding meaning in suffering. Can you think of ways to apply this concept to overcome personal challenges?
Simone de Beauvoir challenged the idea of a pre-defined “womanhood.” Can this concept be applied to other societal constructs like masculinity or social class?
Albert Camus talks about the “absurd hero.” Can you think of real-life figures who embody this idea?
Does the concept of a “higher purpose” contradict the core ideas of existentialism? Why or why not?
How might existentialism be applied to artistic expression?
Do you think shyness is a learned behavior or an inherent personality trait? How does your answer relate to the existential view of freedom?
Would a world where everyone embraced existentialism be a better or worse place? Why?
Can existentialism coexist with religious faith? How might they influence each other?
What are the limitations of existentialism as a philosophy? Does it offer practical solutions to life’s problems?

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