Intro to Humanities

12.6 Existentialism

Citation:

Existentialism emerged as a philosophical movement in the 19th and 20th centuries, focusing on individual existence, freedom, and choice. It developed in response to societal upheavals, challenging traditional beliefs and emphasizing personal responsibility in the face of an apparently meaningless universe.

Key thinkers like Kierkegaard, Sartre, and Camus explored themes of authenticity, anxiety, and absurdity through philosophy and literature. Existentialism influenced various fields, including psychology and popular culture, leaving a lasting impact on modern thought about identity and meaning.

Origins of existentialism

Emerged as a philosophical movement in the 19th and 20th centuries, emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and choice
Developed in response to societal upheavals, challenging traditional philosophical and religious beliefs
Influenced by earlier thinkers who questioned the nature of human existence and meaning

Key historical influences

Søren Kierkegaard's emphasis on subjective truth and individual responsibility shaped existentialist thought
Friedrich Nietzsche's ideas on the death of God and the need for individuals to create their own values influenced existentialist philosophers
Edmund Husserl's phenomenology provided a method for examining human consciousness and experience
Martin Heidegger's concept of "Being-in-the-world" explored the nature of human existence and authenticity

Post-World War II context

World War II's devastation and atrocities led to widespread disillusionment and questioning of traditional values
Existentialism gained popularity as a way to understand and cope with the absurdity and meaninglessness of life in the face of war and suffering
Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus became prominent figures in post-war France, articulating existentialist ideas through philosophy and literature
The Cold War and threat of nuclear annihilation further fueled existentialist concerns about human existence and freedom

Fundamental concepts

Existentialism focuses on the human condition and individual's search for meaning in an apparently meaningless universe
Emphasizes personal responsibility and the importance of making authentic choices in the face of an indifferent world
Rejects determinism and argues for radical human freedom

Existence precedes essence

Humans are born without a predetermined nature or purpose
Individuals create their own essence through their choices and actions
Challenges traditional notions of human nature and divine purpose
Emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to shape their own lives and identities

Freedom and responsibility

Humans are fundamentally free to make choices and create their own meaning
This freedom comes with the burden of responsibility for one's actions and their consequences
Existentialists argue that individuals cannot escape this freedom and must confront it
Concept of "anguish" arises from the weight of this responsibility and the awareness of one's freedom

Authenticity vs bad faith

Authenticity involves living in accordance with one's true self and accepting responsibility for one's choices
Bad faith refers to self-deception and denial of one's freedom and responsibility
Individuals often engage in bad faith to avoid the anxiety of confronting their freedom
Authenticity requires facing the absurdity of existence and making conscious choices despite uncertainty

Major existentialist thinkers

Existentialism encompasses a diverse group of philosophers and writers with varying perspectives
While they share common themes, each thinker contributed unique ideas to the movement
Their works span philosophy, literature, and psychology, influencing multiple disciplines

Søren Kierkegaard

Danish philosopher considered the father of existentialism
Emphasized subjective truth and the importance of personal faith
Introduced concepts of anxiety, despair, and the "leap of faith"
Key works include "Fear and Trembling" and "The Concept of Anxiety"

Jean-Paul Sartre

French philosopher and writer who popularized existentialism in the 20th century
Developed the concept of "existence precedes essence"
Explored themes of freedom, responsibility, and authenticity in his philosophical and literary works
Notable works include "Being and Nothingness" and the play "No Exit"

Simone de Beauvoir

French existentialist philosopher, writer, and feminist
Explored the application of existentialist ideas to gender and social issues
Argued that women's oppression stems from being defined as "the Other" in relation to men
Wrote influential works such as "The Second Sex" and "The Ethics of Ambiguity"

Existentialism in literature

Existentialist themes and ideas found expression in various forms of literature
Writers used fiction, drama, and essays to explore existential concepts and human experiences
Literary works often depicted characters grappling with absurdity, freedom, and the search for meaning

Albert Camus

French-Algerian writer and philosopher associated with existentialism, though he rejected the label
Explored themes of absurdity, rebellion, and the human condition in his works
Developed the concept of the "absurd hero" who persists in the face of meaninglessness
Notable works include "The Stranger," "The Myth of Sisyphus," and "The Plague"

Franz Kafka

Czech writer whose works anticipate many existentialist themes
Depicted alienation, absurdity, and the struggle of individuals against incomprehensible systems
His stories often feature characters confronting bizarre, nightmarish situations
Famous works include "The Metamorphosis," "The Trial," and "The Castle"

Samuel Beckett

Irish novelist, playwright, and poet associated with the Theatre of the Absurd
Explored themes of meaninglessness, repetition, and the human condition in his works
His plays often feature characters trapped in seemingly pointless situations
Best known for the play "Waiting for Godot" and the novel trilogy "Molloy," "Malone Dies," and "The Unnamable"

Existentialist themes

Existentialism explores various aspects of human existence and the challenges individuals face
These themes reflect the movement's focus on individual experience and the human condition
Existentialist thinkers and writers often address these themes in their philosophical and literary works

Absurdity of existence

Recognizes the lack of inherent meaning or purpose in the universe
Humans seek meaning in a world that offers no clear answers or direction
Camus' concept of the absurd hero who continues to live and act despite recognizing life's absurdity
Explored in works like Camus' "The Myth of Sisyphus" and Beckett's "Waiting for Godot"

Anxiety and dread

Existential anxiety arises from the awareness of one's freedom and responsibility
Kierkegaard's concept of "angst" as a response to the possibility of choice and the unknown
Sartre's notion of "nausea" as a reaction to the contingency of existence
Heidegger's idea of "being-towards-death" and the anxiety it produces

Alienation and isolation

Individuals often feel disconnected from others and the world around them
Stems from the recognition of one's unique existence and the impossibility of fully understanding others
Explored in works like Sartre's "Nausea" and Camus' "The Stranger"
Reflects the existentialist emphasis on individual experience and subjectivity

Critique of traditional philosophy

Existentialism challenges many assumptions and methods of traditional Western philosophy
Emphasizes concrete human experience over abstract theories and systems
Seeks to understand existence from the perspective of the existing individual

Rejection of systematic thinking

Existentialists argue against the idea that reality can be fully captured by logical systems
Criticize philosophers like Hegel for creating all-encompassing theories that ignore individual experience
Kierkegaard's critique of Hegel's attempt to create a comprehensive system of thought
Emphasis on the limits of reason and the importance of subjective experience

Emphasis on individual experience

Prioritizes the lived experience of individuals over abstract concepts and theories
Focuses on concrete situations and choices faced by individuals in their daily lives
Sartre's concept of "situation" as the context in which individuals make choices and create meaning
Rejection of universal ethical systems in favor of individual responsibility and choice

Existentialism and religion

Existentialism has a complex relationship with religion, with both atheistic and religious strands
Explores questions of faith, meaning, and the existence of God from an existential perspective
Challenges traditional religious doctrines while also offering new ways of understanding faith

Atheistic existentialism

Represented by thinkers like Sartre and Camus who reject the existence of God
Argues that the absence of God leaves humans fully responsible for creating meaning in their lives
Sartre's famous statement "existence precedes essence" implies no predetermined human nature or purpose
Explores how individuals can find meaning and ethics in a godless universe

Religious existentialism

Thinkers like Kierkegaard and Gabriel Marcel explore existential themes within a religious context
Emphasizes personal faith and the subjective experience of God
Kierkegaard's concept of the "leap of faith" as a way to embrace religious belief despite uncertainty
Paul Tillich's exploration of "the courage to be" in the face of existential anxiety and religious doubt

Impact on modern thought

Existentialism has influenced various fields beyond philosophy, shaping modern intellectual discourse
Its ideas continue to resonate in contemporary discussions of identity, freedom, and meaning
Has left a lasting impact on literature, art, psychology, and popular culture

Influence on psychology

Existential psychology and psychotherapy emerged from existentialist philosophy
Rollo May and Irvin Yalom developed approaches that address existential concerns in therapy
Viktor Frankl's logotherapy focuses on finding meaning in life as a way to overcome psychological distress
Existential themes incorporated into humanistic psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy

Existentialism in popular culture

Existentialist ideas have permeated film, literature, and music
Themes of alienation and the search for meaning appear in works by directors like Ingmar Bergman and Woody Allen
Existentialist influence evident in literature (Haruki Murakami, Milan Kundera)
Rock and punk music often explore existential themes (The Cure, Joy Division)

Key existentialist works

Existentialist thinkers produced numerous influential texts across philosophy and literature
These works explore core existentialist themes and have shaped modern thought
Many continue to be widely read and studied in philosophy, literature, and cultural studies courses

Being and Nothingness

Jean-Paul Sartre's 1943 philosophical treatise, considered a cornerstone of existentialist thought
Explores concepts of consciousness, freedom, and the nature of human existence
Introduces key ideas like "bad faith" and the conflict between being-for-itself and being-in-itself
Influenced subsequent philosophers and writers in their exploration of existential themes

The Stranger

Albert Camus' 1942 novel, exemplifying his philosophy of the absurd
Tells the story of Meursault, an alienated man who commits a senseless murder
Explores themes of absurdity, indifference, and the meaninglessness of life
Challenges societal norms and expectations through its protagonist's detached perspective

Fear and Trembling

Søren Kierkegaard's 1843 philosophical work exploring faith and ethics
Examines the biblical story of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac
Introduces concepts like the "teleological suspension of the ethical" and the "knight of faith"
Explores the nature of religious faith and its relationship to reason and ethics

Criticisms of existentialism

Despite its influence, existentialism has faced various criticisms from philosophers and thinkers
Critics argue that existentialism's focus on individual experience neglects important social and political factors
Some view existentialist ideas as potentially leading to moral relativism or nihilism

Nihilism accusations

Critics argue that existentialism's rejection of inherent meaning can lead to nihilism
Concern that emphasizing individual freedom and responsibility may undermine moral values
Some view existentialist ideas as potentially promoting despair or hopelessness
Existentialists respond by arguing that individuals can create meaning and values through their choices

Limitations of individual focus

Critics argue that existentialism's emphasis on individual experience neglects social and historical contexts
Marxist thinkers criticize existentialism for ignoring the role of social and economic structures in shaping human existence
Feminist philosophers argue that existentialism often reflects a male-centered perspective
Some argue that the focus on individual choice downplays the importance of community and social responsibility

Key Terms to Review (47)

Alienation: Alienation is a feeling of disconnection or estrangement from oneself, others, or society as a whole. This concept highlights the struggles individuals face in a world that can feel overwhelming and isolating. It plays a crucial role in examining how modern life, socioeconomic structures, and existential questions shape human experiences and relationships.

Absurdism: Absurdism is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes the conflict between humans' desire to find inherent meaning in life and the universe's silent indifference to their search. This notion arises from the recognition that life is chaotic and unpredictable, leading individuals to confront the absurdity of existence. Absurdism aligns closely with existentialist thought, suggesting that while life may be devoid of inherent purpose, individuals can create their own meaning through personal choices and actions.

The Castle: The Castle is a novel by Franz Kafka that explores themes of alienation, bureaucracy, and the absurdity of existence. It follows the story of K., a man who struggles to gain access to a mysterious castle that symbolizes an unattainable authority and order, reflecting the existential plight of individuals in a complex and indifferent world.

The Metamorphosis: The Metamorphosis is a novella written by Franz Kafka, first published in 1915, that tells the surreal story of Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning transformed into a giant insect. This bizarre transformation serves as a powerful metaphor for themes of alienation, existential angst, and the struggles of identity in modern society, reflecting existentialist concerns about the meaning of life and human existence.

The Trial: The Trial is a novel by Franz Kafka that follows the story of Joseph K., who is arrested and prosecuted by an inaccessible authority without ever being informed of the charges against him. This work encapsulates themes of existentialism, exploring the absurdity of life, the alienation of individuals, and the struggle for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. The narrative highlights the complexities of existence, where individuals find themselves trapped in bureaucratic systems beyond their comprehension or control.

The plague: The plague refers to a highly infectious and often deadly disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which has led to several devastating pandemics throughout history. Its most infamous outbreak, the Black Death, swept through Europe in the 14th century, leading to profound social, economic, and cultural changes that shaped the course of human history. The impacts of the plague prompted individuals to confront existential questions about life, suffering, and the meaning of existence, laying groundwork for existentialist thought.

Waiting for Godot: Waiting for Godot is a seminal play by Samuel Beckett that encapsulates themes of existentialism, depicting two characters, Vladimir and Estragon, who wait indefinitely for someone named Godot. The play is a cornerstone of absurdist theater and explores the futility of human existence, the passage of time, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. This work reflects existentialist ideas by illustrating how individuals confront their own existence and the uncertainties of life.

The concept of anxiety: The concept of anxiety refers to a profound sense of unease or dread that arises from an individual's awareness of their own freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. In existential thought, anxiety is often viewed as a natural response to the realization that life is inherently uncertain and lacks inherent meaning. This existential anxiety serves as a catalyst for self-exploration and personal growth, pushing individuals to confront their choices and the authenticity of their existence.

Fear and trembling: 'Fear and trembling' is a philosophical concept that represents the emotional and existential turmoil that arises from the recognition of human limitations, moral dilemmas, and the anxiety associated with making profound choices. This term connects to the struggle for authenticity and individuality in a world that often imposes external expectations and societal norms, highlighting the tension between faith, ethics, and the individual's responsibility to act in accordance with their beliefs.

The Stranger: The Stranger is a novel by Albert Camus that embodies the principles of existentialism, focusing on the absurdity of life and the individual's search for meaning. The protagonist, Meursault, embodies a detached perspective on life, highlighting themes of alienation, the indifference of the universe, and the confrontation with mortality. This work serves as a poignant exploration of how societal expectations clash with personal authenticity, ultimately asking fundamental questions about existence and the human condition.

The ethics of ambiguity: The ethics of ambiguity refers to the philosophical idea that human existence is characterized by uncertainty and ambiguity, requiring individuals to embrace freedom and responsibility. This concept suggests that instead of seeking absolute truths or rigid moral frameworks, individuals must navigate their choices with an awareness of the complexities of life, acknowledging that their decisions have implications for themselves and others.

Authenticity: Authenticity refers to the quality of being genuine, true, and honest to oneself and one's values. It involves recognizing and embracing one's own beliefs, feelings, and choices rather than conforming to societal expectations or external pressures. In the context of existentialism, authenticity is about individuals taking responsibility for their own existence and making choices that reflect their true selves.

Anguish: Anguish refers to a profound sense of suffering and emotional distress, often associated with feelings of despair, uncertainty, and existential dread. It embodies the human experience of grappling with life's inherent challenges and the search for meaning amidst pain and suffering. This term is closely connected to themes of freedom, choice, and the burdens of existence, highlighting the tension between individual autonomy and the weight of personal responsibility.

Edmund Husserl: Edmund Husserl was a German philosopher who is considered the founder of phenomenology, a philosophical movement that emphasizes the study of conscious experience and the structures of perception. His work laid the groundwork for existentialism by exploring how individuals create meaning in their lives through lived experiences, challenging the objective standpoint of traditional philosophy.

Friedrich Nietzsche: Friedrich Nietzsche was a German philosopher known for his influential ideas on existentialism, morality, and the nature of existence. He challenged traditional values and proposed concepts like the 'will to power' and the 'Übermensch' (Overman), emphasizing individualism and the rejection of absolute truths. His works paved the way for existentialist thought by examining the human condition and the struggle for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.

Self-realization: Self-realization is the process of recognizing and achieving one's true potential and identity. It often involves an introspective journey where individuals seek to understand their values, desires, and purpose in life. This concept is closely tied to personal growth and existential thought, encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves and pursue meaningful existence.

Søren kierkegaard: Søren Kierkegaard was a Danish philosopher and theologian, widely regarded as the father of existentialism. His work emphasized individual existence, personal choice, and the subjective experience of faith, which laid the groundwork for later existential thinkers. Kierkegaard's focus on the importance of personal responsibility and the angst of making choices reflects the core themes of existentialism, highlighting the struggle to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.

The absurd: The absurd refers to the conflict between human beings' natural tendency to seek inherent meaning in life and the silent, indifferent universe that offers none. This idea highlights the inherent meaninglessness of existence, emphasizing the struggle individuals face when confronting the contradictions between their desires for purpose and the reality of a chaotic world.

Existential nihilism: Existential nihilism is the philosophical belief that life lacks inherent meaning or value, suggesting that individuals must create their own purpose in an indifferent universe. This concept connects deeply with existentialism, as it emphasizes the individual's struggle to find significance amid a reality that offers no absolute truths or preordained meaning.

Objectivism: Objectivism is a philosophical system developed by Ayn Rand that emphasizes the importance of objective reality, reason, and individualism. It posits that reality exists independent of consciousness and that individuals should act in accordance with their rational self-interest to achieve personal happiness. This philosophy champions capitalism as the ideal social system, where the freedom of individuals to pursue their own goals is paramount.

Martin Heidegger: Martin Heidegger was a German philosopher whose work is foundational to existentialism and phenomenology, particularly known for his exploration of Being and existence. His key work, 'Being and Time', delves into the nature of being, human existence, and the concept of 'Dasein'—a term he uses to describe the experience of being that is unique to humans. Heidegger's ideas emphasize authenticity, temporality, and the significance of our choices in shaping our existence.

Phenomenology: Phenomenology is a philosophical approach that focuses on the structures of experience and consciousness. It aims to explore how individuals perceive and make sense of the world around them, emphasizing subjective experience as fundamental to understanding human existence. This method seeks to uncover the meanings that individuals attach to their experiences, which is crucial in existential thought.

The gaze: The gaze refers to the way in which viewers engage with art, literature, and film, often reflecting power dynamics and social relationships. It can signify how the observer interprets and influences the observed, highlighting themes of objectification and subjectivity in human interactions. This concept is particularly relevant in understanding how individuals are positioned within societal norms and expectations, revealing deeper insights into identity and representation.

Bad faith: Bad faith refers to the act of deceiving oneself or others by denying one's own freedom and responsibility. It is a concept in existentialism that highlights the struggle between authentic existence and self-deception, where individuals may avoid confronting their true choices and the weight of their decisions.

Freedom: Freedom is the power or right to act, speak, or think without hindrance or restraint. In the context of existentialism, it highlights the individual's ability to make choices and the responsibility that comes with those choices, emphasizing personal agency and authenticity in a world often seen as absurd and indifferent.

Existential humanism: Existential humanism is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the inherent dignity of human beings while acknowledging the absurdity and meaninglessness of existence. It combines elements of existentialism, which focuses on personal experience and the search for meaning, with a humanistic outlook that values human agency and ethical responsibility in creating one’s own essence and purpose.

The Myth of Sisyphus: The Myth of Sisyphus is a philosophical essay by Albert Camus that explores the absurdity of human existence and the struggle for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology, is condemned to eternally roll a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down each time he reaches the top, symbolizing the relentless nature of life’s challenges and the search for purpose amidst this futility.

Existence precedes essence: The phrase 'existence precedes essence' is a foundational concept in existentialism, emphasizing that individuals are born without any predetermined purpose or identity and must create their own essence through choices and actions. This idea challenges traditional philosophical views that posit an inherent nature or purpose to human existence, suggesting instead that it is our lived experiences and decisions that define who we are.

Being and Nothingness: Being and Nothingness is a philosophical work by Jean-Paul Sartre that explores the concepts of existence, freedom, and the nature of human reality. It delves into how beings (existence) relate to the concept of nothingness (non-existence), highlighting the struggle of individuals to find meaning and identity in an indifferent universe. This work is foundational in existential philosophy, emphasizing the importance of personal choice and the inherent absurdity of life.

Nausea: Nausea is a feeling of discomfort in the stomach that often leads to the urge to vomit. In existentialist thought, it symbolizes a deep-seated discomfort with existence itself, reflecting feelings of absurdity, disorientation, and alienation in a seemingly indifferent universe. This emotional state is often tied to the awareness of one's own freedom and the responsibilities that come with it, leading to an overwhelming sense of dread or anxiety.

Simone de Beauvoir: Simone de Beauvoir was a French philosopher, feminist, and existentialist known for her groundbreaking work 'The Second Sex,' which explores the construction of women's identity and the concept of femininity. Her ideas challenged societal norms and established her as a key figure in both feminist thought and existentialism, emphasizing the importance of individual freedom and choice in the pursuit of authenticity.

The Second Sex: The Second Sex is a foundational text in feminist philosophy written by Simone de Beauvoir, exploring the construction of women's identity and their historical oppression in a patriarchal society. It delves into the ways women have been perceived as the 'Other' in relation to men, asserting that one is not born a woman, but rather becomes one through societal conditioning. The work emphasizes the need for women to attain independence and self-identity beyond societal expectations and roles.

Jean-Paul Sartre: Jean-Paul Sartre was a French philosopher, playwright, novelist, and political activist, widely recognized as one of the leading figures of existentialism and humanism. His works explore themes of freedom, responsibility, and the nature of existence, emphasizing that individuals must create their own meaning in a world that is inherently absurd. Sartre's ideas have significantly influenced modern thought, particularly in discussions surrounding humanism and existential philosophy.

Postmodernism: Postmodernism is a broad intellectual, artistic, and cultural movement that emerged in the mid-20th century as a reaction against the principles and ideals of modernism. It is characterized by a skepticism towards grand narratives, embracing pluralism, relativism, and the blurring of boundaries between high and low culture. This movement influenced various fields, including art, architecture, media, and philosophy, challenging established norms and encouraging innovative expressions.

Absurdity: Absurdity refers to the conflict between human beings' natural desire to find inherent meaning in life and the indifferent, chaotic universe that offers none. This term encapsulates feelings of frustration and disillusionment when confronted with the contradictions and meaningless experiences of existence. It highlights the struggle of individuals to seek clarity and purpose in a world that often seems illogical and devoid of any rational explanation.

Existential anxiety: Existential anxiety refers to the feeling of unease or dread that arises from the contemplation of one’s existence, freedom, and the inherent uncertainties of life. This type of anxiety is often linked to the search for meaning in a world that can feel chaotic or absurd, prompting individuals to confront their own mortality and the weight of their choices.

Anxiety: Anxiety is a psychological state characterized by feelings of unease, worry, and fear about future events or situations. It often emerges from the individual's awareness of their own existence and the inherent uncertainties of life, making it a central theme in existential thought. This emotional experience can lead to a sense of alienation, prompting individuals to confront their freedom, choices, and the meaning of their existence.

The nausea: The nausea refers to a profound sense of existential discomfort and disorientation that arises when individuals confront the absurdity of life and the lack of inherent meaning in existence. This feeling often leads to a crisis, forcing people to reflect on their freedom and the weight of their choices, which is a key theme in existentialist thought.

Existentialism vs. Humanism: Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, asserting that individuals create their own meaning in life. In contrast, humanism is a worldview that prioritizes human values and concerns, emphasizing the importance of human agency and rational thought, often in the context of ethical considerations. The interplay between existentialism and humanism highlights the tension between the subjective quest for meaning and the objective pursuit of human welfare.

Existentialism vs. Essentialism: Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, asserting that individuals create their own meaning and essence through actions and experiences. In contrast, essentialism posits that entities have a set of inherent attributes or essence that define their true nature, independent of individual choices. This contrast highlights fundamental debates about human nature, freedom, and the purpose of existence.

French Existentialism: French existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and existence, asserting that individuals must create their own meaning and values in an inherently meaningless world. This perspective emerged in the 20th century, influenced by thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, who explored themes of absurdity, authenticity, and the human condition within a framework of personal responsibility.

Post-World War II Philosophy: Post-World War II philosophy refers to the diverse range of philosophical movements and ideas that emerged after the conclusion of World War II in 1945, shaped by the profound impact of war, existential crises, and societal changes. This era saw a shift towards questioning traditional values, exploring existentialism, and grappling with themes such as absurdity, freedom, and individual responsibility, which were influenced by the challenges and disillusionments of the time.

Existential despair: Existential despair refers to a profound sense of hopelessness and anguish that arises from confronting the inherent meaninglessness of life. This feeling often emerges when individuals grapple with questions about existence, purpose, and their place in the universe, leading to feelings of isolation and futility. It is a key theme in existential philosophy, highlighting the struggle individuals face when they realize that life may lack inherent meaning or direction.

The stranger: In existential philosophy, 'the stranger' refers to an individual who experiences a profound sense of alienation and disconnection from the world and society around them. This concept is often linked to the idea of existential angst, where a person grapples with feelings of absurdity, meaninglessness, and isolation, ultimately questioning their place and purpose in life. The stranger embodies the existential condition of being alone in a seemingly indifferent universe, highlighting themes of identity, existence, and the search for meaning.

Being and nothingness: Being and nothingness refers to a central philosophical concept in existentialism, primarily articulated by Jean-Paul Sartre. It explores the nature of existence, emphasizing the tension between being (the state of existing) and nothingness (the absence or negation of existence). This concept is crucial for understanding human freedom, choice, and the subjective experience of reality, highlighting how individuals navigate their existence amid inherent meaninglessness.

Albert Camus: Albert Camus was a French philosopher, author, and playwright, known for his contributions to existentialism and absurdism. He explored themes of the human condition, the search for meaning, and the struggle against a seemingly indifferent universe. His works often challenge the conventional understanding of existence and emphasize personal responsibility and authenticity in a world devoid of inherent meaning.

Absurdism: Absurdism is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes the inherent conflict between human beings' desire for meaning and the indifferent, chaotic universe that offers none. It suggests that life is inherently devoid of purpose, leading to feelings of disconnection and confusion. This outlook intersects with various cultural expressions, particularly in literature, theater, and philosophy, where it manifests through themes of existential crisis and the search for meaning in a seemingly irrational world.

Table of Contents

🎻intro to humanities review