Self-existent

Self-existent describes something that exists independently and does not rely on anything else for its existence. It implies an ultimate or fundamental reality, not created or caused by anything outside itself. This concept is often applied to philosophical and theological discussions about the nature of being, the universe, or a supreme being. A self-existent entity is considered eternal and uncaused, the source of its own being and therefore the origin of all other things that exist, whether material or immaterial, natural or supernatural. The idea underscores the notion of absolute autonomy and independence, existing purely 'of itself'.

Self-existent meaning with examples

• The philosopher argued that the universe, with its inherent laws and properties, could not be considered self-existent. It would have required an initial cause outside of itself, some force to start it. Without that cause, he proposed it would have never come into existence. Hence, a self-existent entity to set off creation is proposed. This concept formed the basis of his cosmology, suggesting a fundamental being.
• Many religions posit a self-existent God, the ultimate source of all creation and existence, a being that precedes and surpasses all things. This God is not created or dependent on anything, but rather the originator of all things that are considered to depend on Him. The very core of religious texts is built around this self-existent being which is the starting point of existence.
• Examining the fundamental nature of the concept, if space and time have a beginning, they cannot be considered self-existent. These must be the result of something antecedent; something outside of the space time constraints. If space and time had a beginning, they had a cause; their self existence is a moot point and it is impossible for the self to exist in its constraints.
• In discussions of abstract concepts, like the universe, a self-existent first cause is often presented as the solution to the infinite regress problem. If everything requires a cause, what caused the cause? The concept of a self-existent first cause offers a point of origin where this causal chain terminates, by existing within itself, and is not limited in it's own existence.
• When exploring the philosophical implications of reality, some argue that consciousness, or awareness itself, is self-existent, fundamental to the universe. This means that consciousness would not be a byproduct of physical processes but rather a primary characteristic of reality, with the mind being self-sustained. This would then suggest a unique view of what constitutes existence.