Existentialism

Existentialism is a philosophical theory emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and responsibility. It posits that humans are born without inherent meaning or purpose and must create their own values and define their essence through their choices and actions. Key tenets include the rejection of pre-determined values, the importance of subjective experience, the embrace of the absurd (the conflict between the human desire for meaning and the meaninglessness of the universe), and the acknowledgment of existential anxiety (dread) in the face of freedom and responsibility. Existentialism encourages self-awareness, authenticity, and the courage to confront the fundamental questions of life and death, fostering a sense of personal agency.

Existentialism meaning with examples

• Jean-Paul Sartre, a leading figure in Existentialism, argued that 'existence precedes essence.' This means we are born, and then we define ourselves through our actions and choices. A young artist wrestling with the implications of this thought process began to define the shape of his work using vivid colors and strong lines. This sense of being made him create the greatest work of his career.
• The character's internal conflict over choosing a career path exemplifies existentialism. The feeling of unease about making any decision for the future can cause great anxiety. The anxiety stemmed from a sudden realization that only she could create the structure for her own life, and the gravity of this prospect caused severe contemplation.
• The novel explores the themes of authenticity and self-deception, central to existentialist thought. The main character wrestled with the desire to be true to herself. The battle of this desire became the ultimate sacrifice for her, one which shaped her decision on where she would live for the rest of her life. The author wanted to create a sense of self, or lack thereof.
• The film's exploration of the meaning of life in the face of suffering and death directly reflects existentialist concerns. The hero began to understand the struggles of the human experience. With this epiphany, his understanding on the way the world works was drastically changed. The new understanding made his actions more intentional and he became free from doubt.
• The protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the acceptance of responsibility for his actions demonstrates existentialist principles. The man realized that his past choices have led him to where he is now. This realization gave him a sense of control over his future which had been taken from him in his youth. He then began making more conscious choices.