Existentialism

Definition

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, asserting that people define their own meaning in life amidst an inherently meaningless universe. This approach connects deeply with themes such as the struggle of identity, the nature of good and evil, and the quest for self-discovery, often exploring how individuals confront the absurdity of existence and the inevitability of death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Existentialism gained prominence in the 20th century, with key figures like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir advocating for personal freedom and responsibility.
2. The philosophy often portrays existence as absurd, challenging individuals to confront this absurdity while seeking their own paths in life.
3. Existentialists argue that traditional values and societal norms are often insufficient in providing true meaning, prompting a deeper introspection on personal beliefs.
4. Death is a central theme in existentialism, with many philosophers suggesting that awareness of mortality can lead to a more authentic way of living.
5. Existentialism has influenced various forms of art and literature, inspiring writers to explore complex characters facing moral dilemmas and existential crises.

Review Questions

• How does existentialism's focus on individual choice and freedom shape characters' experiences in literature?
  • In literature, existentialism's emphasis on individual choice and freedom shapes characters who often confront moral dilemmas and must make decisions that reflect their authentic selves. These characters typically navigate a world devoid of inherent meaning, leading them to grapple with their responsibilities in defining their identities. This exploration creates tension as they wrestle with societal expectations versus their personal beliefs.
• Discuss the implications of existentialism on the concepts of good and evil within philosophical dialogues.
  • Existentialism challenges traditional notions of good and evil by suggesting that these concepts are not universally defined but rather shaped by individual experiences and choices. In philosophical dialogues influenced by existentialist thought, the emphasis shifts from absolute morality to subjective interpretation of actions. This perspective invites deeper discussions on moral responsibility and the complexities involved in making ethical decisions in an unpredictable world.
• Evaluate how existentialism addresses the themes of death and the afterlife compared to divine or supernatural beliefs.
  • Existentialism addresses death as a critical factor in understanding human existence, often rejecting traditional views of the afterlife associated with divine or supernatural beliefs. Instead, it posits that awareness of mortality can lead individuals to live more authentically and purposefully. This evaluation fosters a sense of urgency to create meaning within one's lifetime, contrasting sharply with ideologies that offer promises of life beyond death, thus focusing attention on living fully in the present.

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 degree to which an individual is true to their own personality, spirit, or character despite external pressures, central to existentialist thought.

Nihilism: The belief that life lacks objective meaning, purpose, or intrinsic value, often seen as a precursor to existentialist ideas.