Existentialism

Definition

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, asserting that people create their own meaning and essence through their actions and decisions. This idea often arises in contexts where traditional structures or beliefs are questioned, highlighting the absurdity of life and the search for purpose amidst chaos.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Existentialism originated in the 19th century, gaining prominence through the works of philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche, before becoming widely recognized in the 20th century.
2. Key existentialist thinkers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, explored themes of freedom, responsibility, and the burden of choice in an absurd world.
3. Existentialism emphasizes the concept of 'existence precedes essence,' meaning that individuals are not born with a predetermined purpose but must create their own through choices.
4. The influence of existentialism extends beyond philosophy into literature and theater, where it has shaped works that reflect human struggles against meaninglessness.
5. Existentialist themes often feature characters facing moral dilemmas and crises of identity, illustrating the tension between individual desires and societal expectations.

Review Questions

• How does existentialism relate to the themes of freedom and choice in human existence?
  • Existentialism centers around the idea that individuals are free to make their own choices and create their own meanings in life. This philosophy posits that rather than adhering to predetermined roles or societal norms, each person must take responsibility for their actions and define their essence through those choices. The emphasis on freedom highlights the power and burden that come with making decisions in an often chaotic and indifferent universe.
• Discuss how absurdism complements or contrasts with existentialist ideas about life's meaning.
  • Absurdism aligns with existentialism by also acknowledging the conflict between humans' quest for meaning and an indifferent universe that lacks inherent purpose. While existentialists suggest individuals can create meaning through their choices, absurdists argue that this search for meaning is ultimately futile because life is inherently absurd. Both philosophies engage with feelings of disconnection from traditional structures but diverge on whether meaning can be found or if one must accept life's absurdity without seeking deeper significance.
• Evaluate the impact of existentialist thought on modern literature and theater, citing specific examples.
  • Existentialist thought has significantly influenced modern literature and theater by emphasizing themes such as alienation, identity crisis, and moral ambiguity. Works like Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot' encapsulate the absurdity of existence, showcasing characters trapped in repetitive cycles with no clear purpose. Similarly, plays by Arthur Miller, like 'Death of a Salesman,' explore individual struggles against societal expectations, highlighting the tension between personal aspirations and external pressures. These examples demonstrate how existentialism has shaped narratives that reflect the complexities of human experience in a world lacking clear answers.

Related terms

Absurdism: A philosophy closely related to existentialism that focuses on the conflict between humans' desire to find inherent meaning in life and the silent, indifferent universe that offers none.

Authenticity: The quality of being genuine or true to oneself, which is a central theme in existentialist thought as individuals strive to live according to their own values and beliefs.

Nihilism: A philosophical viewpoint that suggests life is without objective meaning, purpose, or intrinsic value, often seen as a reaction to existentialist ideas.