Existentialism

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Existentialism (pronounced ex·is·ten·tial·ism /ˌɛɡzɪˈstɛnʃəˌlɪzəm/) is a philosophical theory or approach that emphasizes the existence of the individual person as a free and responsible agent determining their own development through acts of the will.

Etymology

The term "Existentialism" (French: L'existentialisme) was coined by the French philosopher Gabriel Marcel in the mid-20th century. It is derived from the Latin word 'existentialis', from 'existere' meaning "to exist".

Related Terms

Overview

Existentialism is associated with several 19th and 20th-century European philosophers who shared an emphasis on the human subject, despite profound doctrinal differences. Its major themes are that humans are essentially alone in the universe and that each individual must take responsibility for his or her own actions, without the aid of laws, ethnic rules, or traditions.

Existentialism views human beings as conscious entities, not as objects to be predicted or manipulated; and that individuals have unique and authentic experiences. Thus, authentic existence involves a certain tension that comes from our "inevitable confrontation with nothingness" and our simultaneous recognition of the deep responsibility we carry for creating ourselves.

Key Concepts

  • Existence precedes essence: This concept means that the most important consideration for the individual is the fact that he or she is an individual—an independently acting and responsible conscious being ("existence")—rather than what labels, roles, stereotypes, definitions, or other preconceived categories the individual fits ("essence").
  • The Absurd: The notion of the Absurd contains the idea that there is no meaning in the world beyond what meaning we give it.
  • Facticity: It includes the facts and events (including birth and death), a person's past and environment, and the totality of their concrete situation.
  • Authenticity: It is the degree to which a person's actions are congruent with their beliefs and desires, despite external pressures to conform.

See Also

External links

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