5 Simple Questions // Existentialism
Can we explain the philosophy of existentialism in five simple questions? Let’s find out.
1. What is existentialism in simple terms?
Existentialism is a philosophical and cultural movement that emphasises individual existence, freedom, and choice.
It suggests that the human experience is subjective and that individuals must create their own meaning and purpose in life. It also highlights the anxiety and uncertainty that can arise from this freedom and responsibility.
In essence, existentialism focuses on the individual’s experience of being in the world and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless existence.
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2. What is the basic theory of existentialism?
The basic theory of existentialism emphasises the uniqueness of each individual’s existence, and their freedom and responsibility to make choices that shape their own lives.
Existentialism also acknowledges the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with the fact that individuals must confront the inevitability of their own mortality. It argues that in order to live authentically and fulfil their potential, individuals must confront these existential realities and accept the responsibility for their choices and actions.
Existentialism also challenges traditional beliefs and societal structures that may limit individual freedom and autonomy, including religion, social norms, and political systems.
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3. What are three beliefs of existentialism?
Authenticity: Existentialism emphasises the importance of being true to oneself and living an authentic life. This involves taking responsibility for one’s choices and actions and avoiding conformity to external norms or expectations. Authenticity also requires confronting the existential realities of life, including the inevitability of death and the uncertainty of the future.
Freedom and responsibility: Existentialism asserts that individuals have complete freedom to make choices and determine the course of their lives. However, this freedom comes with the responsibility to accept the consequences of those choices and take responsibility for one’s own existence. This responsibility cannot be avoided or delegated to external authorities or structures.
Meaning and purpose: Existentialism acknowledges that life has no inherent meaning or purpose, but individuals must create their own meaning through their choices and actions. This requires confronting the uncertainty and anxiety of existence and embracing the freedom and responsibility that comes with it. Meaning and purpose can be found in a variety of ways, such as creative expression, personal relationships, or the pursuit of personal goals and values.
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4. What is an example of existentialism?
An example of existentialism can be found in the works of the French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre. In Sartre’s play No Exit, the characters are trapped in a room together, with no way out and no external authority to provide them with meaning or purpose. They are forced to confront their own existence and the choices they have made in their lives, ultimately coming to the realisation that their choices have defined who they are.
Another example of existentialism can be found in the works of the Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, who argued that individuals must make a leap of faith in order to confront the uncertainty and anxiety of existence. He believed that individuals must take responsibility for their own lives and choose to live authentically, even in the face of uncertainty and doubt.
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5. What is existentialism today?
Existentialism continues to be a relevant and influential philosophical and cultural movement today. While it emerged in the early 20th century, its emphasis on individual experience, freedom, and choice resonates with many people in contemporary society.
In today’s world, existentialism can be seen in a variety of contexts, including art, literature, psychology, and even popular culture. Many contemporary artists and writers explore existential themes in their work, such as the search for meaning and purpose in a chaotic world, the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with freedom, and the struggle to find authenticity in a society that values conformity.
