Existentialism is one of the most impactful philosophical movements of the 20th century. It delves deep into the human condition, exploring freedom, responsibility, and the quest for meaning. Though it has diverse strands and interpretations, the core of existentialism remains the same: human beings are free to make their own choices, yet they must also bear the weight of those choices.
This summary of existentialism will explore its key tenets, major proponents, timeline, and how it compares to other philosophical schools. Through this exploration, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of existentialism and its significance in both historical and modern contexts.
What is Existentialism?
Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and existence. It challenges traditional views on human nature and society, arguing that meaning is not inherent in the world but must be created by the individual. The movement rose to prominence in the 20th century, with thinkers exploring the complexities of life, death, and the search for authenticity. At its core, existentialism asserts that life is not defined by predetermined essence, but by personal experience and action.
Existentialism is concerned with the challenges that arise from living in a seemingly indifferent or even absurd world. It asks profound questions about what it means to be human and how to navigate a life full of uncertainty. The philosophy offers no easy answers, but instead encourages individuals to confront life’s inherent difficulties head-on, accepting responsibility for their choices and the consequences that follow.
Key Tenets of Existentialism
Existentialism is built upon several foundational principles that guide its exploration of human existence. These key tenets address the nature of freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in an uncertain world. Here are the core ideas that define existentialist thought.
Existence Precedes Essence
One of the most famous existentialist claims is that “existence precedes essence.” This means that a person is not born with a predetermined nature or purpose. Instead, individuals must create their essence through actions and decisions. This contrasts with traditional views that see human beings as having an inherent purpose or meaning. According to existentialism, we are born as a blank slate and must define ourselves through our choices.
Freedom and Responsibility
Existentialism places a strong emphasis on freedom, specifically the freedom to make choices. But with freedom comes responsibility. Individuals are accountable for their actions, and this responsibility can be overwhelming. Existentialist thinkers argue that true freedom requires facing the consequences of one’s decisions and accepting the weight of that responsibility.
Absurdity
The concept of absurdity is central to existentialist thought, particularly in the works of Albert Camus. Absurdity refers to the conflict between humans’ desire for meaning and the universe’s apparent indifference to that search. Life often seems arbitrary and meaningless, yet humans continue to seek answers. Existentialism urges individuals to confront this absurdity, acknowledging it without surrendering to despair.
Authenticity
Authenticity is the pursuit of living in alignment with one’s true self, free from external expectations or societal pressures. Existentialist thinkers stress the importance of embracing one’s individuality and not conforming to societal norms. To be authentic is to take responsibility for your existence and live with integrity, making choices that reflect your true desires and values.
Angst and Alienation
Angst (or existential anxiety) is a feeling of deep unease that arises when we realize the full extent of our freedom and responsibility. It comes from understanding that life is uncertain and that we are alone in making choices that shape our existence. Alienation, closely related to angst, refers to the sense of disconnection individuals often feel from society or the world at large. These feelings can be overwhelming but are seen as necessary for personal growth in existentialist thought.
Major Proponents of Existentialism
Existentialism owes much of its development and popularity to a select group of philosophers who contributed groundbreaking ideas. These thinkers challenged traditional views on human nature and society, shaping the movement’s trajectory. Here are some of the most prominent figures in existentialist thought.
Jean-Paul Sartre
Jean-Paul Sartre is perhaps the most well-known existentialist. His philosophy centers on the concept of radical freedom. Sartre argued that humans are condemned to be free; we must make choices and take responsibility for them, without relying on external structures such as religion or morality to define our actions. His famous work Being and Nothingness explores these themes in depth, and his existentialism influenced countless fields, including literature, politics, and psychology.
Simone de Beauvoir
Simone de Beauvoir, an existentialist and feminist philosopher, is best known for her work The Second Sex. She explored the ways in which society constructs roles for women, limiting their freedom and identity. For de Beauvoir, existentialism provided a framework for understanding women’s oppression as a consequence of historical and societal forces. She stressed the importance of women asserting their own freedom and living authentically.
Martin Heidegger
Martin Heidegger is considered a precursor to existentialism, particularly with his focus on human existence, which he described as “being-in-the-world.” Heidegger explored the concept of being and how humans relate to time, death, and the world around them. While his philosophy is more abstract than some other existentialists, his influence on later thinkers, including Sartre, is undeniable.
Albert Camus
Albert Camus is most famous for his exploration of the absurd. In works like The Stranger and The Myth of Sisyphus, Camus examines the tension between human beings’ search for meaning and the universe’s inherent indifference. He argued that while life may be absurd, we must continue to live with passion and defiance, creating meaning despite the odds.
Søren Kierkegaard
Søren Kierkegaard is often regarded as the father of existentialism. A 19th-century Danish philosopher, Kierkegaard focused on the individual’s relationship with God and the importance of personal choice. He introduced the concept of “leap of faith,” which suggests that belief in God requires an irrational, personal commitment. Though he predated many existentialist thinkers, his work laid the groundwork for much of the existentialist movement.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Friedrich Nietzsche is famous for his critique of traditional morality and his proclamation that “God is dead.” Nietzsche challenged conventional religious and moral values, urging individuals to create their own values and live life to its fullest. His ideas about the “Übermensch” (overman) and the “will to power” became central to existentialist thought, influencing both Sartre and Camus.
The Timeline of Existentialism
Existentialism’s evolution spans centuries, with its roots stretching into earlier philosophical traditions. From its foundations in the 19th century to its rise in the 20th century, existentialism has had a lasting impact on modern thought. Understanding its development helps contextualize the movement and its ongoing influence. Below is an expanded timeline of existentialism’s key moments.
Early Foundations
The early foundations of existentialism can be traced to the 19th century, particularly through the work of Søren Kierkegaard (1813–1855) and Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900).
Kierkegaard, often considered the “father of existentialism,” emphasized the importance of personal choice and individual faith. He criticized institutionalized religion and argued that true faith required a “leap of faith” that transcended reason. His work Fear and Trembling (1843) explores the tension between individual choice and religious duty, laying the groundwork for later existentialist thinkers.
Friedrich Nietzsche, who emerged in the late 19th century, is famous for his radical critiques of Christianity, morality, and societal norms. In Thus Spoke Zarathustra (1883–1885), Nietzsche introduced the concept of the “Übermensch” (superman) and famously declared that “God is dead,” arguing that individuals must create their own values in the absence of divine or moral authority. Nietzsche’s philosophy of the “will to power” also influenced existentialist thought, particularly in the development of personal freedom and self-assertion.
Though both Kierkegaard and Nietzsche did not identify as existentialists, their focus on individual subjectivity, freedom, and the creation of meaning paved the way for the movement’s later developments.
The Rise of Existentialism
The 20th century marked the formal rise of existentialism as a philosophical movement, with thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Martin Heidegger, and Albert Camus defining its core tenets and shaping its broader cultural impact.
Jean-Paul Sartre (1905–1980) is arguably the most influential existentialist of the 20th century. His works, especially Being and Nothingness (1943), established existentialism as a systematic philosophy. Sartre’s famous assertion that “existence precedes essence” underscores the idea that individuals are not born with a predetermined purpose but must create their own meaning through choices and actions. Sartre’s philosophy resonated with the post-World War II era, as it addressed the disillusionment and absurdity of modern life.
Simone de Beauvoir (1908–1986), a contemporary of Sartre, played a pivotal role in developing existentialist thought through a feminist lens. In The Second Sex (1949), de Beauvoir explored the ways in which women have been socially constructed as “the other” and emphasized the existentialist idea that one’s essence is not defined by societal norms. Her work combined existentialism with feminism, arguing that women must assert their freedom and individuality.
Martin Heidegger (1889–1976), though often associated with phenomenology, also heavily influenced existentialism. In Being and Time (1927), Heidegger explored the concept of “being-in-the-world,” focusing on human existence and our relationship to time, death, and the unknown. His ideas helped shape existentialism’s understanding of the human condition, particularly the themes of anxiety and alienation.
Albert Camus (1913–1960), best known for his works The Myth of Sisyphus (1942) and The Stranger (1942), introduced the concept of the absurd. Camus argued that life’s inherent meaninglessness conflicts with humanity’s desire for order and understanding. Despite recognizing life’s absurdity, Camus contended that individuals must continue living fully and authentically, creating meaning in a world that offers none.
The post-World War II period saw existentialism become a dominant intellectual force, influencing not just philosophy but also literature, psychology, and the arts. The rise of existentialism mirrored the sense of disillusionment following the war, where people were searching for ways to cope with the breakdown of traditional values and the absurdity of human existence.
Modern Influence
Though existentialism peaked in the mid-20th century, its influence endures today in various fields and remains highly relevant. Existentialist thought has found application in existential psychotherapy, which helps individuals confront their anxiety and create meaning in their lives. In literature and art, existentialist themes of freedom, absurdity, and alienation continue to resonate, with authors like Haruki Murakami and filmmakers like Woody Allen exploring existential questions.
Existentialism’s core ideas about individual freedom and authenticity have also found relevance in contemporary social movements, especially those advocating for personal autonomy and self-expression. In an increasingly fragmented and uncertain world, existentialist concepts continue to inspire those who seek meaning in a chaotic universe.
In addition, existentialist philosophy has made its way into modern discussions on politics, ethics, and the environment, helping individuals engage with questions about personal responsibility in the face of global challenges. Today, thinkers across various disciplines continue to draw from existentialism to address the complexities of modern life, ensuring that its impact will remain significant for years to come.
Existentialism Vs Other Philosophies
Existentialism is often compared to other philosophical schools due to its unique approach to human existence. While it shares some ideas with other philosophies, its focus on individual freedom, responsibility, and meaning sets it apart. Below are comparisons between existentialism and other significant philosophies.
#1. Existentialism vs. Absurdism
Existentialism and absurdism are closely related but differ in how they respond to the inherent meaninglessness of life. Absurdism, particularly championed by Albert Camus, asserts that the human search for meaning in an indifferent universe is futile, yet we must continue searching. In contrast, existentialism embraces the idea of creating meaning through personal choices and actions. While both philosophies recognize the absurdity of existence, existentialism provides more of a framework for action, whereas absurdism leans towards acceptance of life’s inherent meaninglessness without seeking to create purpose.
#2. Existentialism vs. Nihilism
Nihilism and existentialism share the view that life lacks inherent meaning. However, existentialism emphasizes the freedom and responsibility to create one’s own meaning, while nihilism tends to reject all values, beliefs, and purpose as ultimately insignificant. While nihilism can lead to despair and inaction, existentialism advocates for a personal quest to find authenticity, even in a world that offers no inherent meaning. Existentialists find meaning through the human will to choose and act, while nihilists often resign themselves to the void.
#3. Existentialism vs. Humanism
Humanism and existentialism both value human dignity and individual autonomy, but they approach these values differently. Humanism emphasizes the potential for human reason and ethics to create meaning in life, often grounded in secular or religious contexts. Existentialism, on the other hand, asserts that meaning is not given by society, religion, or reason, but must be created through personal choice. While humanism may focus on communal values and human welfare, existentialism is more concerned with individual authenticity and the experience of freedom and responsibility.
#4. Existentialism vs. Realism
Realism in philosophy is grounded in the belief that the external world exists independently of human perception and that truth can be known objectively. Existentialism, however, is more concerned with the subjective experience of existence and the individual’s role in interpreting and acting in the world. While realism focuses on objective truths about reality, existentialism emphasizes the individual’s responsibility to confront the subjective and often absurd nature of existence. Existentialism asserts that truth is not always objective but is instead shaped by human experience and action.
#5. Existentialism vs. Essentialism
Essentialism holds that objects, including humans, have an inherent essence or purpose that defines them. This contrasts sharply with existentialism’s core idea that “existence precedes essence.” According to existentialism, humans are not born with a predetermined essence or purpose but instead must create meaning through their actions and choices. Essentialism suggests that individuals are born with a fixed nature, while existentialism asserts that people are free to define themselves and their purpose. This fundamental difference sets existentialism apart from essentialist philosophies, which view identity as something given, not made.
#6. Existentialism vs. Rationalism
Rationalism is the belief that reason and logic are the primary sources of knowledge and truth. Rationalists hold that through the use of reason, humans can understand the world and solve problems. Existentialism, on the other hand, emphasizes the limits of reason when it comes to understanding the human experience. Existentialists argue that rationality cannot fully capture the complexity of human freedom, anxiety, and the search for meaning. While rationalism seeks universal truths based on logic, existentialism focuses on individual experience, subjective interpretation, and personal responsibility, which often defy rational explanation.
#7. Existentialism vs. Determinism
Determinism is the philosophy that every event or state of affairs, including human actions, is the outcome of preceding events in accordance with the laws of nature. This view suggests that humans are not truly free but are bound by causes beyond their control. Existentialism rejects this idea, asserting that individuals have the freedom to make choices independent of deterministic forces. Existentialist thinkers argue that while external influences such as biology, culture, and environment may shape us, we still possess the autonomy to define ourselves through our actions. The existential emphasis on personal freedom stands in direct contrast to determinism’s view of human behavior as preordained.
#8. Existentialism vs. Stoicism
Stoicism teaches that virtue, wisdom, and self-control are the highest goods and that individuals should strive to live in harmony with nature by accepting what cannot be changed. Stoics focus on maintaining inner peace by controlling one’s responses to external events. Existentialism, however, focuses more on the struggle to find meaning in a chaotic and absurd world. While Stoicism encourages acceptance of fate and detachment from emotions, existentialism urges individuals to confront their anxiety, embrace their freedom, and actively create meaning, even in the face of life’s uncertainties. The existentialist view is one of engagement with life, while Stoicism emphasizes resilience through detachment.
Closing Thoughts
Existentialism remains one of the most profound philosophical movements, offering deep insights into the human condition. It challenges individuals to confront life’s inherent uncertainties and empowers them to create their own meaning through freedom and responsibility. Through its key tenets, existentialism provides a lens to examine the complex relationship between existence, choice, and authenticity.
While existentialism shares some common ground with other philosophies, its unique emphasis on personal freedom, individual responsibility, and the search for authenticity distinguishes it from schools like nihilism, determinism, and rationalism. The influence of existentialist thinkers continues to shape contemporary thought in numerous fields, from literature to psychotherapy, and it remains relevant in today’s world, where people continue to wrestle with questions of identity, freedom, and purpose.
Ultimately, existentialism encourages individuals to embrace their own humanity, acknowledging both the struggles and possibilities that come with living authentically. The philosophical journey it offers is not one of easy answers but of self-discovery, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of meaning in a world that offers none.