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The emergence of existentialism in the 19th century marked a pivotal shift in philosophy, with figures like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche challenging traditional absolutes and religious certainties. Nietzsche's work, including his critique of religion and morality, his response to nihilism, and his views on the state and power, played a crucial role in shaping existential thought and influencing later philosophers.
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The Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and logic began to give way to new philosophical movements
Early Stirrings of Modernism
The early stages of Modernism emerged during this time of intellectual change
Romanticism's Influence
The rise of Romanticism also played a role in shaping new philosophical ideas
Existentialism emerged as a philosophical movement that questioned traditional beliefs and explored the individual's place in the world
Kierkegaard is often considered the first existentialist philosopher and explored the implications of a world without traditional absolutes
Nietzsche's work laid important groundwork for existentialism, challenging individuals to create their own values in an uncertain world
Nietzsche's ideas had a profound impact on later existentialist thinkers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus
Nietzsche's early life was marked by personal loss and he showed a talent for language and music
Nietzsche's career as a philologist was cut short by health problems, leading to his resignation and declining health in later years
Nietzsche's exploration of individualism, truth, and morality were pivotal in shaping existentialist thought
Nietzsche saw religion, particularly Christianity, as a hindrance to human flourishing and declared that "God is dead."
Nietzsche warned of the potential for nihilism in the absence of traditional beliefs, but also saw the opportunity for individuals to create new, life-affirming values
Nietzsche viewed the state as an impersonal entity that could easily become oppressive and cautioned against it becoming a replacement for religious authority
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19th Century Intellectual Shift
Transition from Enlightenment rationalism to Romanticism and early Modernism.
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Existentialism's Core Inquiry
Examines human existence, individual's role in creating meaning without traditional absolutes.
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Friedrich Nietzsche's Contribution
Challenged established morality, questioned religious certainties, emphasized individual will.
