What is Existentialism? Definition | Origin | Examples | Literature | Characteristics | existentialism vs absurdism | Existentialism vs nihilism.

 

Definition of Existentialism: Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It asserts that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning in life and that they must confront the challenges and uncertainties of existence. Existentialism focuses on the subjective experience of the individual and explores themes related to freedom, authenticity, and the search for personal identity and purpose.

History of Existentialism: Existentialism emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, with roots in the works of philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche. It gained significant prominence in the mid-20th century, with influential figures such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus contributing to its development.

Characteristics of Existentialism:

1. Individual Freedom: Existentialism emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and choice. It asserts that individuals have the autonomy to make decisions and shape their lives.

2. Existential Anxiety: Existentialists often explore the anxiety and dread that arise when individuals confront the inherent uncertainties and challenges of existence.

3. Absence of Inherent Meaning: Existentialism rejects the notion of inherent or objective meaning in life. It suggests that individuals must create their own meaning and values.

Types of Existentialism: Existentialism encompasses various schools of thought, including Christian existentialism, atheistic existentialism, and existential phenomenology. Each type approaches existentialist themes from a different perspective.

Words Based on Existentialism: Words related to existentialism include existentialist, existential, existential crisis, and existentialist literature.

Existentialism vs. Nihilism: Existentialism and nihilism share some similarities, as both philosophies challenge conventional beliefs and the search for objective meaning. However, existentialism embraces the idea that individuals can create their own meaning, while nihilism tends to reject the possibility of meaning altogether.

Existentialism in Literature: Existentialist themes are prevalent in literature, particularly in the works of authors like Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, and Franz Kafka. These authors explore the human condition, freedom, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.

Existentialism Examples: Examples of existentialist works include Jean-Paul Sartre's play "No Exit," Albert Camus' novel "The Stranger," and Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Notes from Underground." These texts illustrate existentialist themes and the inner struggles of their characters as they navigate life's uncertainties.

The Concept of Existentialism: Existentialism posits that life lacks inherent meaning and that individuals must confront the challenges of existence by making authentic choices and embracing personal responsibility.

Existentialism vs. Absurdism: Existentialism and absurdism share some common themes, such as the absence of inherent meaning. However, absurdism, as exemplified by Albert Camus, specifically explores the human response to the absurdity of life, often in the face of irrationality and indifference.

Three Qualities of Existentialism: Three key qualities of existentialism include a focus on individual freedom, an exploration of existential anxiety and dread, and the rejection of inherent or objective meaning in life.

The Role of God in Existentialism: Existentialism does not inherently require a belief in God or deny it. Existentialist thought varies, with some existentialists being religious (Christian existentialists) and others atheistic. The emphasis is on individual choice and responsibility, and individuals are free to incorporate or reject religious beliefs within an existentialist framework.