Existence precedes essence

Definition

Existence precedes essence is a fundamental principle in existentialist philosophy, particularly associated with Jean-Paul Sartre. This idea suggests that individuals are not born with a predetermined purpose or essence; instead, they first exist and then create their own essence through choices and actions. This concept emphasizes the freedom and responsibility of individuals to shape their own lives, as well as the importance of authentic existence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sartre argues that humans are 'condemned to be free', meaning that while they have the freedom to choose, this freedom also comes with the weight of responsibility for those choices.
2. The concept challenges traditional philosophical views that suggest a person's essence or purpose is predefined by nature or God.
3. Sartre uses the example of a paper cutter to illustrate how objects have an essence that defines their purpose, while humans must define their own essence through actions.
4. This principle lays the foundation for the idea of personal responsibility, as individuals must confront the consequences of their choices and cannot blame fate or external forces.
5. In rejecting any predetermined essence, Sartre emphasizes that individuals must create meaning in a world that lacks inherent purpose.

Review Questions

• How does Sartre's concept of existence preceding essence challenge traditional views about human nature and purpose?
  • Sartre's idea that existence precedes essence directly challenges traditional views that suggest individuals have an inherent purpose or predefined nature. In contrast, Sartre argues that people first exist and then shape their own identity and values through their choices. This shift from a fixed essence to one defined by individual actions highlights the existentialist belief in personal freedom and responsibility, emphasizing that each person must navigate their own path in life.
• Discuss the implications of bad faith in relation to the concept of existence preceding essence.
  • Bad faith relates closely to the notion that existence precedes essence by illustrating how individuals can evade the responsibility that comes with freedom. When people act in bad faith, they deceive themselves into believing they have no choice or control over their lives, often conforming to societal roles. This self-deception prevents them from embracing their authentic selves and creating their own essence, ultimately denying their freedom and reinforcing a false sense of identity.
• Evaluate how Sartre’s assertion that existence precedes essence influences contemporary discussions about identity and self-determination.
  • Sartre's assertion that existence precedes essence has significant implications for contemporary discussions on identity and self-determination, particularly in understanding how individuals navigate complex social contexts. By rejecting predetermined identities imposed by culture, religion, or society, Sartre encourages a more fluid understanding of identity where people actively construct themselves through choices. This perspective empowers individuals to seek authenticity and challenge societal expectations, promoting a dialogue about personal agency and the diverse ways people define themselves in an increasingly interconnected world.

Related terms

Existentialism:

A philosophical movement that focuses on individual existence, freedom, and choice, asserting that people create their own meaning and values in an indifferent or even absurd universe.

Bad Faith: A form of self-deception or lying to oneself, where individuals deny their freedom and responsibility by conforming to societal norms or roles instead of embracing their authentic self.

Authenticity: The quality of being true to oneself and one's values, which involves making choices based on personal beliefs rather than external pressures or expectations.