Existentialism is a philosophical movement that challenges the traditional views on the purpose of life. It pushes us to question long-held beliefs about meaning, morality, and existence itself. At its core, existentialism rejects the idea that life has inherent purpose. Instead, it insists that individuals must create their own meaning.
This perspective invites both freedom and responsibility, offering a deeper understanding of our role in the world. In this article, we will explore existentialism’s perspective on the purpose of life, examining key ideas and how they challenge conventional thinking.
Understanding Existentialism
Defining Existentialism and Its Historical Roots
Existentialism emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, driven by a desire to address the complexities of human existence. It focuses on the individual’s experience, emphasizing personal freedom, choice, and responsibility. The movement gained momentum with figures like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche, who laid the groundwork for later thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. Existentialism arose as a response to the rise of scientific reasoning and the decline of traditional religious structures. It sought to address the feelings of alienation and meaninglessness that many people began to experience in the modern world.
Key Philosophers in Existentialism
Several key philosophers have shaped the existentialist movement, each bringing unique perspectives on life’s purpose. Søren Kierkegaard, often considered the father of existentialism, focused on the individual’s relationship with God and the concept of faith. Friedrich Nietzsche, known for his declaration that “God is dead,” argued that humans must overcome nihilism and create their own values. Jean-Paul Sartre took existentialism into the realm of radical freedom, asserting that existence precedes essence and that we are responsible for creating meaning in our lives. Albert Camus, on the other hand, explored the idea of the absurd and how individuals must live authentically in a meaningless world.
The Core Existentialist Belief: Meaning Is Not Inherent
A central belief in existentialism is that life does not come with pre-given meaning or purpose. Rather, meaning must be actively created by the individual. Existentialists argue that the universe itself is indifferent to human existence, and there is no divine plan or inherent meaning in life. This belief forces individuals to confront the harsh reality that they are responsible for crafting their own purpose. It is through the choices we make and the lives we lead that we define who we are and what gives our lives significance.
Existentialism’s Perspective on the Purpose of Life
#1. Existence Precedes Essence
Existentialism’s central tenet is that “existence precedes essence.” This means that we are not born with a fixed purpose or nature. Unlike objects that are created with a specific purpose in mind, humans first exist, and only through their actions and choices do they define their essence. We are not born with predefined meanings; instead, we must create them through our choices, behavior, and relationships. The emphasis here is on individual freedom. This freedom to choose defines who we are and what we become.
#2. Radical Freedom and Responsibility
Radical freedom is one of the key elements of existentialism. It asserts that individuals are free to act and make choices, without being determined by external forces like society, religion, or tradition. However, this freedom comes with a heavy burden. Along with the freedom to choose comes the responsibility for those choices. There are no excuses or predestined paths to follow. Every decision matters, and it is up to the individual to take ownership of the consequences. This responsibility can be overwhelming, but it also offers the power to shape one’s life and purpose.
#3. The Absurd and Meaning-Making
Albert Camus, one of the leading existentialists, discussed the concept of the “absurd”—the tension between humans’ desire for meaning and the universe’s indifference. The absurd arises when we realize that life does not offer the clear-cut answers or sense of purpose we seek. This realization can be unsettling. However, rather than despairing, existentialism encourages us to create meaning in the face of absurdity. It is through our conscious choices, commitments, and the search for authenticity that we assert meaning in our lives, despite the universe’s indifference.
#4. Authenticity and Self-Discovery
Existentialism places great emphasis on living authentically—being true to oneself rather than conforming to external expectations or societal norms. Authenticity involves embracing our freedom and responsibility while rejecting false identities imposed by others. It requires self-reflection and an honest confrontation with who we truly are. By pursuing authenticity, we uncover the deeper purpose of life, as we stop living for others and begin living for ourselves. It is through self-discovery that we create meaning that resonates with our true nature.
#5. Passion and Commitment
In the existentialist view, life’s purpose is not found in passive contemplation but through active engagement. Passion and commitment are essential components of finding meaning. Existentialists argue that we must throw ourselves into life with vigor and intensity, pursuing what truly excites and matters to us. Whether it is a career, a relationship, or a personal project, the commitment to something that ignites passion gives life purpose. This act of passionately committing to something meaningful helps us shape our existence.
#6. Overcoming Nihilism
One of the challenges existentialism addresses is the danger of nihilism—the belief that life has no meaning at all. Nihilism often emerges after the realization that life is inherently meaningless. However, existentialism provides a counterpoint. It suggests that while the universe does not offer inherent meaning, we have the freedom to create it. By confronting nihilism directly, existentialists argue that we can find strength in our autonomy and use it to define our own meaning. This confrontation with nihilism is not about avoiding the harsh truths of existence but embracing them and using them to carve out a purpose.
#7. Transcendence Through Choice
Transcendence, in existentialism, refers to the act of going beyond the limitations imposed by societal expectations or external circumstances. It is through the choices we make that we transcend our immediate circumstances, shaping a purpose that is uniquely ours. Existentialists believe that through conscious, intentional decisions, individuals can overcome the constraints of the world around them and move toward a higher state of being. This transcendence is not about escaping reality but embracing our freedom to shape our destiny and live in accordance with our true selves.
Closing Thoughts
Existentialism offers a powerful perspective on the purpose of life, one that emphasizes individual freedom, responsibility, and the creation of meaning. It challenges the conventional idea that life has a predefined purpose, urging us instead to embrace the reality that meaning must be actively created through our choices and actions.
By confronting the absurd, living authentically, and passionately committing to what matters, we can transcend nihilism and shape our own existence. The existentialist path is not easy, but it is one that leads to a deeper understanding of life’s potential. Ultimately, existentialism calls on each of us to take full responsibility for our lives and to actively engage in the process of meaning-making, for it is through this process that we discover our true purpose.