Key Concepts in Existentialism

Key Concepts in Existentialism

Blog Article

Existentialist philosophy, a philosophy that developed in the 19th-20th century period, emphasizes personal freedom, free will, and personal experience. Central to this school of thought is the belief that being precedes essence, meaning that people define their own significance and purpose through their choices. Existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche contend that life has no inherent meaning, and it is up to each individual to determine their own principles in a uncaring universe.

This school of thought confronts traditional notions of predetermination and the notion that life's meaning is predetermined. Conversely, existentialism proposes that humans must confront the inherent irrationality of life and welcome their freedom to make choices and take action. This often causes an existential crisis, where people struggle with sensations of anxiety and disorientation as they face the emptiness of natural meaning. However, it is through this crisis that one can attain genuine existence by acknowledging liability for one's actions and creating personal significance.

Existentialism also explores ideas of estrangement, despair, and the human condition. In a small business philosophy world where conventional beliefs and values are often scrutinized, existentialist thought provides a foundation for comprehending the complexities of human existence. By acknowledging the absence of universal truths, existentialist philosophy urges people to exist vividly and genuinely, despite the doubts and difficulties of life. It is a invitation to accept the liberty and accountability that come with being a person, and to seek purpose in an otherwise uncaring world.