Existentialism

Definition

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, suggesting that people are responsible for creating their own meaning in a world that can seem chaotic and devoid of inherent purpose. This philosophy challenges traditional views about existence and explores the human experience as one characterized by uncertainty, anxiety, and the search for authenticity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Existentialism emerged in the 20th century as a response to the disillusionment with traditional philosophies and religions after World War II.
2. Key existentialist thinkers include Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus, each contributing unique insights into human existence and freedom.
3. Existentialism posits that existence precedes essence, meaning that individuals define their own purpose rather than being born with a predetermined purpose.
4. The theme of alienation is prevalent in existentialism, reflecting how individuals can feel disconnected from society or even themselves.
5. Existentialist literature often portrays characters grappling with the absurdity of life, illustrating their struggle to find meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.

Review Questions

• How does existentialism challenge traditional views about existence and meaning?
  • Existentialism challenges traditional views by asserting that instead of having an inherent purpose dictated by religion or society, individuals must create their own meaning through their choices and actions. This philosophy rejects the notion that life comes with preordained significance, emphasizing the responsibility each person has in navigating their existence. The focus on personal freedom and the subjective nature of experience reshapes how individuals perceive their role in the world.
• Discuss how absurdism relates to existentialist thought regarding meaning and the human experience.
  • Absurdism complements existentialist thought by highlighting the conflict between humans' quest for meaning and an indifferent universe that offers none. While existentialism emphasizes personal responsibility to create meaning in one's life, absurdism suggests that this quest may ultimately be futile due to life's inherent absurdity. Both philosophies acknowledge the anxiety and uncertainty that arise from this struggle but approach it from different angles, with absurdism focusing more on acceptance of the absurd condition.
• Evaluate the impact of existentialist ideas on modern theater and storytelling, particularly in portraying human experiences.
  • Existentialist ideas have significantly influenced modern theater and storytelling by shifting focus toward individual experiences, choices, and the search for meaning in an ambiguous world. Plays and narratives often feature characters who confront profound existential dilemmas, illustrating themes of alienation, freedom, and authenticity. This approach fosters deeper audience engagement by reflecting relatable human struggles while challenging them to confront their own beliefs about existence and purpose. The portrayal of characters navigating life's absurdities resonates powerfully with contemporary audiences seeking understanding amid uncertainty.

Related terms

Absurdism: A philosophical perspective that highlights the conflict between humans' desire to find inherent meaning in life and the indifferent universe that offers none, often leading to a sense of absurdity.

Authenticity: The quality of being true to oneself and one's values, often emphasized in existentialist thought as a key aspect of living a meaningful life.

Freedom: In existentialism, freedom refers to the idea that individuals have the power to make choices and shape their own lives, despite external constraints.