Overview

Existentialism is the philosophy of the individual. It argues that the universe has no inherent meaning, so we are free (and condemned) to create our own meaning.

Core Idea

The core idea is Existence precedes Essence. We are born first (existence), and then we define who we are through our choices (essence). There is no blueprint for a human being.

Formal Definition

A philosophical movement emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and choice. It holds that humans define their own meaning in an irrational universe.

Intuition

It’s radical responsibility.

  • The Absurd: We crave meaning, but the universe is silent. (Camus).
  • Angst: The dizziness of freedom. Realizing you could do anything is terrifying.
  • Bad Faith: Pretending you have no choice (“I had to follow orders”) to escape the burden of freedom.

Examples

  • Myth of Sisyphus: Sisyphus pushes a rock up a hill forever. Camus says we must imagine him happy. The struggle itself is enough.
  • God is Dead: Nietzsche argued that without religious certainty, we must become “Ubermensch” (Overmen) and create our own values.

Common Misconceptions

  • Misconception: It’s just being depressed and wearing black.
    • Correction: It’s actually a philosophy of action and freedom. It empowers you to take control of your life.
  • Misconception: It’s nihilism (belief in nothing).
    • Correction: Nihilism says there is no meaning. Existentialism says there is no inherent meaning, so you must make one.
  • Nihilism: The rejection of all religious and moral principles.
  • Phenomenology: The method used by many existentialists (Heidegger, Sartre).
  • Absurdism: The conflict between the human tendency to seek inherent value and meaning in life and the human inability to find any.

Applications

  • Psychotherapy: Existential Therapy helps patients confront death, freedom, and meaninglessness.
  • Literature: Dostoevsky, Kafka, and Beckett explore these themes.

Criticism and Limitations

  • Individualism: It can be too focused on the self and ignore social/structural forces.
  • Ambiguity: It offers no clear moral rules, which can be paralyzing.

Further Reading

  • Existentialism Is a Humanism by Jean-Paul Sartre
  • The Stranger by Albert Camus