Exploring existentialism, a philosophy emphasizing individual meaning-making in an indifferent world, shaped by thinkers like Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, de Beauvoir, and Camus. It critiques rationalism and positivism, influenced literature and theater, and differs from nihilism by advocating for personal significance.
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Existentialism emerged as a response to the limitations of positivism and rationalism
Impact of World Wars
The devastation and moral ambiguity of the World Wars created a fertile environment for existentialist thought to flourish
Doubt and Uncertainty
The post-war period was characterized by doubt and uncertainty, providing a backdrop for existentialist philosophy to develop
Existentialism was shaped by influential thinkers such as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, de Beauvoir, and Camus
The central idea of existentialism is that individuals must create their own identities and meaning through their actions and choices
Existentialism emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and living authentically
Existentialism acknowledges the subjective nature of human experience and the importance of individual perspective
Existentialism highlights the freedom and responsibility individuals have in shaping their own lives and creating their own meaning
Existentialism recognizes the anxiety and dread that come with the freedom and responsibility of creating meaning in an indifferent universe
Existentialism acknowledges the inherent absurdity of life and the conflict between human desire for meaning and the indifference of the world
Authors such as Kafka and Dostoevsky explored existential themes in their works, often through characters facing existential dilemmas
Plays like "Waiting for Godot" exemplify existentialist themes and ideas
Movies like "The Matrix" and "Joker" delve into existential questions and concepts, reflecting the enduring fascination with existentialism in contemporary culture
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A key principle of existentialism is that '______ precedes ______,' suggesting people must define themselves through their actions.
existence
essence
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Existentialism vs. Positivism & Rationalism
Existentialism challenged positivism and rationalism, which relied on empirical evidence and logic for truth.
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Existentialism's Core Perspective
Existentialism focuses on individual existence, freedom, and choice as fundamental to human condition.
