Atheistic Existentialism

Definition

Atheistic existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and responsibility while rejecting the notion of a divine or predetermined purpose in life. This perspective asserts that without a God, individuals must create their own meaning and values in an indifferent universe, often leading to themes of absurdity and existential angst. Atheistic existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre argue that the absence of a divine creator compels individuals to confront their existence authentically and to take responsibility for their actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Atheistic existentialism is rooted in the idea that life has no inherent meaning, so individuals must create their own purpose through choices and actions.
2. Jean-Paul Sartre famously stated that 'existence precedes essence,' highlighting that humans first exist and then define themselves through their actions.
3. This philosophy often grapples with feelings of absurdity, as it posits that searching for meaning in a meaningless universe can lead to frustration and despair.
4. Atheistic existentialism rejects traditional religious frameworks and critiques the arguments for God's existence by emphasizing human autonomy and subjective experience.
5. Existentialists advocate for embracing freedom and the responsibility that comes with it, suggesting that individuals must confront their freedom rather than seek comfort in external authorities or beliefs.

Review Questions

• How does atheistic existentialism address the concepts of meaning and purpose in life?
  • Atheistic existentialism asserts that life has no predetermined meaning or purpose due to the absence of a divine being. Instead, it encourages individuals to create their own meaning through choices and personal experiences. This view challenges traditional notions of purpose provided by religion and emphasizes individual responsibility in crafting one's own values in an indifferent universe.
• In what ways does atheistic existentialism critique traditional religious arguments for God's existence?
  • Atheistic existentialism critiques traditional religious arguments by asserting that they rely on external authorities for meaning and purpose, which stifles individual freedom. Philosophers like Sartre argue that belief in God limits human autonomy, as it implies a predetermined essence. By rejecting these arguments, atheistic existentialists emphasize self-definition and the need for individuals to embrace their freedom without reliance on religious constructs.
• Evaluate the implications of atheistic existentialism on personal responsibility and moral decision-making.
  • Atheistic existentialism places significant emphasis on personal responsibility because it holds that individuals must create their own values and make choices in an inherently meaningless world. This perspective leads to the idea that moral decision-making becomes a deeply personal endeavor rather than one guided by external moral codes or religious doctrines. Individuals are thus responsible for the consequences of their choices, which can foster a sense of empowerment but also anxiety regarding the weight of such freedom.

Related terms

Absurdism: A philosophical stance that recognizes the conflict between humans' search for meaning and the silent, indifferent universe, leading to the idea that life is inherently meaningless.

Authenticity: The quality of being true to one's own personality, spirit, or character despite external pressures, which is central to existentialist thought.

Existential Angst: A profound feeling of anxiety or dread arising from human freedom, choice, and the inherent meaninglessness of existence.