Essentials of Existentialist Philosophy

Essentials of Existentialist Philosophy

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Existentialist philosophy, a philosophy that developed in the 19th-20th century period, emphasizes personal liberty, choice, and individual experience. At the heart of this school of thought is the belief that being precedes essence, implying that people define their own significance and purpose through their deeds. Existentialist thinkers like Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche contend that life is inherently meaningless, and it is up to each individual to determine their own values in a uncaring universe.

This school of thought confronts conventional ideas of preordained fate and the idea that life's purpose is pre-established. Instead, existentialist philosophy suggests that people must face the fundamental meaninglessness of life and embrace their liberty to decide and do. This often causes an existential crisis, where people wrestle with feelings of anxiety and confusion as they face the lack of inherent meaning. Nonetheless, it is through this dilemma that one can reach true existence by accepting responsibility for one's decisions and establishing personal importance.

Existentialist philosophy also delves into themes of alienation, hopelessness, and the human experience. In a environment where established principles and beliefs are small business philosophy often questioned, existentialism provides a framework for understanding the complexities of human life. By recognizing the lack of universal truths, existentialist thought urges people to exist vividly and genuinely, despite the doubts and difficulties of life. It is a invitation to accept the liberty and accountability that come with being a person, and to seek meaning in an otherwise indifferent world.