Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and meaning in a world that may seem chaotic or indifferent. Existentialists argue that people must create their own purpose rather than relying on external structures like religion, tradition, or social norms.
Philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche, Albert Camus, and Martin Heidegger explored these ideas, shaping the way people understand existence, morality, and personal responsibility. While existentialists often have different viewpoints, there are some fundamental beliefs they would generally agree upon.
1. Existence Precedes Essence
One of the core principles of existentialism is the idea that existence precedes essence. This means:
- People exist first and then define themselves through their choices and actions.
- There is no predetermined essence or purpose assigned at birth.
- Each individual is responsible for shaping their own identity and values.
This challenges traditional philosophical views that suggest humans have inherent meanings or roles dictated by divine will or universal truths. Instead, existentialists argue that meaning is something each person must create for themselves.
2. Freedom and Responsibility Are Central
Existentialists believe that humans are radically free to make their own choices. However, this freedom comes with a heavy burden-responsibility. Since there is no external force dictating what people must do, individuals must take full responsibility for their decisions, values, and actions.
Sartre called this concept “anguish”-the weight of knowing that every choice we make defines who we are. This can be both empowering and terrifying, as people must navigate life without a fixed guide.
Implications of Freedom
- Moral responsibility: Without absolute moral rules, people must decide right from wrong.
- Authenticity: True freedom means acting in accordance with one’s own beliefs, not societal pressures.
- No excuses: Blaming fate, destiny, or external forces is a way of avoiding responsibility.
3. Life Has No Inherent Meaning
A central existentialist idea is that life has no inherent meaning-but this is not necessarily a negative concept. Instead, existentialists view this as an opportunity:
- Meaning is created, not given. Each person must define what is meaningful for themselves.
- The absurdity of life is a reality people must accept. Camus called this the “absurd”-the conflict between humanity’s search for meaning and a universe that offers none.
- Embracing the absurd allows individuals to live authentically rather than seeking external justification for existence.
For example, in The Myth of Sisyphus, Camus describes how Sisyphus, condemned to push a boulder up a hill for eternity, finds meaning in his struggle. This symbolizes how humans must create their own purpose despite life’s inherent absurdity.
4. Authenticity Is Essential
Existentialists emphasize the importance of authenticity-living in a way that reflects one’s true beliefs, rather than conforming to societal expectations.
Living Authentically Means:
- Making decisions based on personal values, not pressure from others.
- Accepting the consequences of one’s choices.
- Avoiding self-deception-pretending to be something one is not leads to an inauthentic life.
Sartre warns against “bad faith” (mauvaise foi), which occurs when people lie to themselves to escape responsibility. An example is someone who follows societal norms blindly, rather than making choices based on personal conviction.
5. Death Gives Life Urgency
Many existentialists believe that awareness of death is essential for living a meaningful life. Since human life is finite, people must make the most of their time by living authentically and purposefully.
Heidegger argues that:
- “Being-toward-death” is an essential part of existence.
- People often distract themselves from the reality of mortality, avoiding deep reflection.
- Accepting the certainty of death encourages individuals to live more deliberately.
Rather than viewing death as something to fear, existentialists see it as a reminder to take control of one’s life and make intentional choices.
6. Human Relationships Are Complex and Necessary
Although existentialism often focuses on the individual, relationships play a significant role in shaping identity and meaning. Sartre, for example, explores the conflict between self and others in Being and Nothingness.
Existentialist Views on Relationships:
- Others shape our self-perception: Sartre’s famous phrase “Hell is other people” (from No Exit) reflects the struggle of seeing ourselves through the judgment of others.
- Love and friendship require authenticity: True relationships are built on honest connections, not societal expectations.
- No person can define another: Each individual must create their own meaning, even in relationships.
While relationships can enrich life, existentialists warn against losing one’s identity by conforming to another’s expectations.
7. There Is No Universal Morality
Existentialists reject the idea of a universal moral code imposed by religion, culture, or tradition. Instead, they argue that morality is subjective and must be determined by each individual.
Ethical Implications:
- People must create their own moral values. There is no external authority to dictate right from wrong.
- Actions define character. A person is not “good” or “bad” inherently-only their choices determine morality.
- Ethical dilemmas must be faced with honesty and responsibility. There are no absolute answers, only individual decisions.
Nietzsche’s famous idea of “beyond good and evil” argues that morality is a human construct-people should rise above traditional notions of good and bad to create their own ethical frameworks.
8. Despair and Hope Coexist
Existentialists acknowledge that life can be filled with suffering, uncertainty, and despair. However, this does not mean that hope is impossible. Instead, they advocate for embracing life’s struggles and finding meaning despite them.
Camus argues that the only true philosophical question is whether life is worth living. His answer is yes-because even in an absurd world, people can create joy and purpose.
Existentialism presents a bold, challenging view of human existence. While existentialists have different perspectives, they generally agree on key ideas:
- Existence precedes essence-people define their own purpose.
- Freedom comes with responsibility-every choice matters.
- Life has no inherent meaning-individuals must create their own.
- Authenticity is essential-living truthfully is the highest goal.
- Death gives life urgency-embracing mortality leads to a fuller existence.
These ideas encourage people to live deliberately, meaningfully, and authentically, even in a world without clear answers.