Choice

Definition

Choice refers to the act of selecting or making a decision when faced with two or more possibilities. In existentialism, choice is central because it emphasizes individual freedom and the responsibility that comes with making personal decisions, reflecting the essence of human existence and authenticity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In existentialism, choice is a reflection of individual freedom, highlighting how personal decisions define one's identity and existence.
2. Existentialists argue that every choice carries weight, leading to feelings of anxiety or dread, known as 'existential angst.'
3. The concept of choice is tied to the idea of responsibility; making a choice means accepting the consequences that follow.
4. Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre emphasized that individuals are 'condemned to be free,' meaning they must confront the burden of choice in a world without predetermined meaning.
5. Choice also plays a role in defining relationships, as individuals must navigate their connections with others based on their personal values and decisions.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of choice relate to the idea of individual freedom in existentialism?
  • In existentialism, choice is fundamentally linked to individual freedom as it highlights the power individuals have to shape their own lives. Each decision made reflects personal values and beliefs, emphasizing that freedom is not just about having options but also about taking responsibility for those choices. This connection underscores how existentialists view human existence as one defined by the ongoing process of making meaningful choices.
• Discuss the implications of choice on personal identity according to existentialist thinkers.
  • Existentialist thinkers argue that choice significantly impacts personal identity because it defines who individuals are based on their decisions. Each choice reflects an aspect of one's character and values, shaping how one perceives oneself and how one is perceived by others. This relationship implies that authenticity arises from making choices aligned with one's true self, reinforcing the notion that identity is not fixed but continuously developed through the act of choosing.
• Evaluate the tension between freedom and responsibility in the context of choice within existential philosophy.
  • The tension between freedom and responsibility is central to existential philosophy, particularly concerning choice. While individuals are free to make decisions, this freedom comes with the weight of responsibility for those choices and their consequences. Existentialists like Sartre argue that embracing this responsibility is essential for authentic living. As individuals face the implications of their choices, they must navigate feelings of anxiety or dread while striving to create meaning in an inherently meaningless world.

Related terms

Free Will: The ability to make choices that are not determined by prior causes or external forces, allowing individuals to act according to their own desires and beliefs.

Authenticity: The quality of being true to oneself and one's values, often requiring individuals to make choices that align with their genuine identity and beliefs.

Absurdism: A philosophical perspective that recognizes the inherent meaninglessness of life and suggests that individuals must create their own meaning through the choices they make.