Existential angst

Definition

Existential angst is a deep, often unsettling feeling of anxiety or dread that arises from the realization of one's own freedom and the weight of personal responsibility. This term captures the discomfort and uncertainty that individuals experience when confronted with the inherent meaninglessness of life, prompting them to question their existence and the choices they make. It is a central theme in the works of existentialist thinkers who emphasize individual agency and the struggle to find personal meaning in a chaotic world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sartre posits that existential angst is a natural consequence of human freedom, as individuals are faced with the burden of creating their own essence through choices.
2. Camus explores existential angst in relation to the absurd condition of human life, particularly in his works like 'The Myth of Sisyphus', where he argues for embracing life despite its lack of inherent meaning.
3. Existential angst can lead individuals to confront profound questions about existence, such as 'What is my purpose?' and 'What does it mean to live authentically?'
4. Both Sartre and Camus suggest that facing existential angst can ultimately lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s place in the world.
5. Existential angst is often depicted as a catalyst for self-discovery, pushing individuals to confront uncomfortable truths about their existence and societal norms.

Review Questions

• How do Sartre and Camus perceive existential angst, and what role does it play in their philosophies?
  • Sartre views existential angst as an inevitable outcome of human freedom, emphasizing that individuals must grapple with the responsibility of defining their own lives. Camus, on the other hand, frames existential angst within the context of absurdity, arguing that recognizing life's lack of inherent meaning can lead to liberation rather than despair. Both philosophers highlight how confronting this angst can inspire individuals to seek authenticity and personal meaning.
• In what ways does existential angst influence the concept of authenticity in existentialism?
  • Existential angst compels individuals to confront their true selves and challenge societal norms that may dictate behavior. This confrontation often leads to a deeper understanding of authenticity, as individuals realize that they have the freedom to define themselves. The process of navigating existential angst requires embracing one's choices and responsibilities, ultimately fostering a more genuine existence aligned with personal values.
• Evaluate how existential angst functions as a catalyst for self-discovery in the philosophies of Sartre and Camus, considering their differing perspectives on meaning.
  • Existential angst serves as a crucial catalyst for self-discovery in both Sartre's and Camus's philosophies but approaches it differently. For Sartre, the anguish stemming from absolute freedom prompts individuals to actively create their essence through choice, leading to profound personal insights. In contrast, Camus suggests that acknowledging life's absurdity through existential angst allows for acceptance and appreciation of one's experiences, pushing individuals towards meaningful engagement with life despite its lack of intrinsic value. Both perspectives encourage individuals to embrace their anxiety as a pathway to deeper understanding and authentic living.

Related terms

Absurdism: A philosophical perspective that recognizes the inherent meaninglessness of life, suggesting that humans must create their own meaning despite this absurdity.

Authenticity: The degree to which an individual's actions and choices align with their true self and values, often in the face of societal expectations.

Freedom: The capacity to make choices and act independently, which is both a source of empowerment and a source of existential angst due to the responsibility it entails.