Existentialism: The Meaning of Life and Human Existence

Existentialism, an influential philosophical movement that emerged primarily in the 19th and
20th centuries, represents a profound and multifaceted exploration of human existence,
wresting with the quintessential inquiries regarding the nature of life, individuality, freedom,
and the pursuit of meaning in an ostensibly chaotic and indifferent universe. At its core,
existentialism diverges from traditional philosophical approaches by prioritizing subjective
human experience and the complexities of individual existence over abstract metaphysical or
systematic inquiries.
Existentialism challenges the conventional philosophical paradigm by proposing that humans
are not endowed with predetermined meanings or purposes. Instead, it asserts that
individuals are born into an existential void, devoid of inherent significance, and must grapple
with the daunting task of ascribing meaning to their existence through their choices, actions,
and personal experiences.
Existentialism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the 20th century,
particularly in the aftermath of World War II. It revolves around the fundamental principles
of human existence, freedom, responsibility, and individuality. Existentialist thinkers address
questions related to the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the individual's
relationship with the social, political, and ethical aspects of the world.
Existentialist Thinkers
Key existentialist thinkers such as Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre,
Martin Heidegger, and Albert Camus, among others, contributed distinct perspectives to this
philosophical discourse, enriching the movement with diverse interpretations and emphases.
Their philosophical treatises, novels, essays, and plays underscored the multifaceted nature
of existentialist thought, elucidating the intricacies of human consciousness, the pursuit of
authenticity, the anguish of existence, and the perpetual quest for meaning in an ostensibly
absurd and indifferent universe. Let’s touch briefly on tthem.
1. Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855): Often considered the precursor of existentialism,
Kierkegaard emphasized the subjective nature of truth and the importance of personal
choice. He argued that human existence is characterized by anxiety and despair, but
individuals can find meaning through faith, ethics, and the pursuit of personal authenticity.
2. Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900): Nietzsche critiqued traditional philosophy, morality, and
religion, advocating for the affirmation of life in its genuine and creative aspects. He famously
proclaimed that "God is dead" and called for the emergence of the "Ubermensch" (superman)
who would reject societal norms and create their own values.
3. Martin Heidegger (1889-1976): Heidegger's philosophy centers on the concept of "Dasein,"
which means "being-there" in German. He emphasized the subjective experience of existence
and the importance of individual authenticity. Heidegger believed that individuals often fall
into inauthenticity by conforming to societal expectations and that true meaning can be found
by recognizing one's finitude and taking responsibility for one's own existence.

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4. Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980): Sartre is one of the most influential existentialist thinkers.
He argued that existence precedes essence, meaning that individuals create their essence
through the choices they make. Sartre emphasized the concept of freedom and the anguish
that comes along with it, rejecting any objective morality or predefined human nature.
According to him, individuals are responsible for their choices and the consequences that
follow.
5. Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986): Often associated with feminist existentialism, de
Beauvoir examined the relationship between gender and existentialism. She argued that both
women and men experience existential conflicts but believed that women face unique
challenges due to societal expectations. De Beauvoir advocated for women's liberation from
traditional gender roles, asserting that existence is not limited to biology but should be
defined freely by each individual.
6. Albert Camus (1913-1960): Camus explored the theme of the absurdity of existence,
focusing on the tension between humanity's search for meaning and the indifferent nature
of the universe. He famously wrote that "the only truly serious philosophical problem is
suicide" since the absurdity of life can lead individuals to question their existence. Still, despite
the absence of inherent meaning, Camus suggested that individuals should rebel against the
meaninglessness of life by creating their own values and engaging in authentic experiences.
7. Gabriel Marcel (1889-1973): Marcel emphasized the importance of human relationships
and personal encounters with others as the source of meaning and value. He criticized
modern, technological society, which he believed leads to alienation and objectification of
individuals. Marcel called for a return to concrete experience and existential engagement that
recognizes the uniqueness and dignity of every individual.
These existentialist thinkers have significantly impacted philosophy, literature, and various
other disciplines, shaping our understanding of the human condition, individuality, and the
choices we make in our lives. Their insights continue to inspire, challenge, and provoke
contemplation on the meaning of existence for many today.

Existentialist Themes
1. Existence Precedes Essence
One of the foundational principles that distinguishes existentialism from other philosophical
perspectives is the assertion that "existence precedes essence." Coined by the 20th-century
philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, this concept encapsulates a profound reorientation of
traditional philosophical notions, challenging the idea that individuals possess inherent,
predetermined meanings or purposes from the moment of their inception. This existentialist
maxim propounds that human beings are not born with a fixed essence or predetermined
nature, in contrast to objects or entities in the natural world. Instead, individuals are thrust
into existence first, and only through their lived experiences, choices, and actions do they
carve out their essence.

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To delve into this tenet, it is essential to comprehend the historical and intellectual context in
which existentialism arose. The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed a seismic shift in
philosophical discourse, marked by the decline of traditional metaphysics and the rise of
empirical sciences. Existentialism, emerging as a reaction to this changing landscape, sought
to grapple with the implications of a world devoid of overarching meaning or divine guidance.
Existentialist thinkers rejected the notion of a preordained human nature, contending that
individuals are not predetermined entities with fixed purposes, but rather, they are thrust
into an indifferent universe with the freedom to shape their own destinies.
Sartre's articulation of "existence precedes essence" is intricately tied to the rejection of
essentialism, a philosophical stance that posits inherent qualities or characteristics that define
an entity. In the existentialist framework, the human being is portrayed as an 'existence'
without a predetermined 'essence.' This departure from essentialism signifies a radical
departure from traditional philosophical perspectives that ascribed fixed attributes to
individuals based on predetermined categories, such as human nature or divine plans.
The implications of this existentialist tenet are far-reaching, permeating various aspects of
human experience. It thrusts individuals into a state of radical freedom, emphasizing the
responsibility to define their essence through their choices. In this paradigm, the human
experience is not a passive unfolding of a preconceived plan but an active engagement with
the world. It underscores the idea that each person is the author of their own existence,
tasked with navigating the complexities of life and determining their values, beliefs, and
identity.
Summaritly, "existence precedes essence" stands as a pivotal tenet in existentialist thought,
encapsulating a radical departure from traditional philosophical paradigms. It challenges the
notion of a predetermined human nature, thrusting individuals into a realm of radical
freedom, responsibility, and the perpetual quest to define their essence through authentic
choices and lived experiences. This existentialist maxim remains an enduring and thought-
provoking cornerstone in the exploration of human existence and the quest for meaning in
an ostensibly indifferent universe.
2. Freedom and Responsibility
At the heart of existentialist philosophy lies the inseparable tandem of freedom and
responsibility. This key tenet, deeply embedded in the fabric of existentialist thought, posits
that human beings are endowed with radical freedom, granting them the power to shape
their own existence. However, this freedom is not without its weighty counterpart—
responsibility. The existentialist perspective contends that individuals are not only free to
make choices but are also accountable for the consequences of those choices. This intricate
interplay between freedom and responsibility forms a philosophical landscape that
challenges conventional notions of determinism and underscores the profound agency each
person possesses in crafting the meaning of their own lives.
Existentialist thinkers, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, have delved into
the complexities of freedom and responsibility, offering nuanced insights into their dynamic

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relationship. To comprehend this tenet comprehensively, it is essential to explore both the
existentialist understanding of freedom and the existential demand for responsible action.
Freedom in Existentialism: Existentialism's conception of freedom extends beyond the
conventional understanding of mere autonomy or the absence of external constraints.
Rather, existentialist freedom is characterized by radical autonomy—an unfettered agency
that allows individuals to determine the course of their lives. Sartre, in particular, argued for
a radical form of freedom that surpasses any predetermined essence or external influences.
He famously declared, "Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world,
he is responsible for everything he does."
This radical freedom is not a passive state but an active engagement with the world.
Existentialists reject the idea of a predetermined human nature or a divine plan, emphasizing
that individuals are not bound by external forces but are, instead, architects of their own
existence. Freedom, in this sense, becomes both liberating and burdensome—an
empowering force that requires individuals to confront the responsibility inherent in their
choices.
Responsibility in Existentialism: The existentialist concept of responsibility emerges as a
natural consequence of the radical freedom bestowed upon individuals. If one is truly free to
shape their existence, they must also bear the weight of responsibility for the consequences
of their actions. Existentialist responsibility is not a mere moral obligation imposed by
external authorities; rather, it is an inherent aspect of human existence.
Sartre's idea of "bad faith" underscores the evasion of responsibility—an act of self-deception
where individuals deny their freedom and shirk the accountability for their choices. Authentic
existence, according to existentialists, necessitates embracing responsibility fully,
acknowledging the impact of one's decisions on oneself and others.
The intertwining of freedom and responsibility becomes particularly evident in the
existentialist exploration of choice. Existentialists reject the notion of predetermined paths or
moral absolutes, asserting that individuals must navigate a world devoid of inherent meaning
or guidance. In making choices, they not only define their own essence but also contribute to
the collective shaping of human values and meanings.
Freedom and responsibility in existentialism transcend philosophical abstractions,
permeating the very core of human experience. The existentialist call for radical freedom
challenges individuals to confront the profound agency they possess in shaping their
existence. Simultaneously, the demand for responsibility underscores the inextricable link
between freedom and accountability, urging individuals to embrace the consequences of
their choices authentically. This existential dynamic, with its inherent challenges and
dilemmas, remains a thought-provoking cornerstone in the exploration of human agency,
moral choice, and the pursuit of meaning in a world fraught with uncertainties.
3. Authenticity and Inauthenticity
Existentialism, as a philosophical movement, places a profound emphasis on the concepts of
authenticity and inauthenticity. These notions delve into the nature of human existence and

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the moral imperative to live a life true to one's own values, beliefs, and individuality. Rooted
in the existentialist rejection of external norms and predefined roles, the exploration of
authenticity unfolds as a critical aspect of existentialist thought.
Authenticity: Authenticity, in the existentialist context, is a state of being true to oneself,
embracing one's freedom, and taking responsibility for one's choices. This concept, central to
the works of existentialist philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger, posits
that individuals must engage in genuine self-discovery, define their values, and lead lives that
resonate with their unique essence.
Sartre, in his seminal work "Being and Nothingness," underscores the idea that authenticity
requires individuals to acknowledge their radical freedom and actively shape their own
existence. Authentic living involves making choices that align with one's deepest convictions,
irrespective of societal expectations or external pressures. The authentic individual embraces
the inherent uncertainties of existence, confronting the existential void with a sense of
purpose derived from personal commitment and self-discovery.
Heidegger, on the other hand, introduced the concept of "authentic Being-toward-death."
Authenticity, for Heidegger, involves confronting the inevitability of death and using this
awareness as a catalyst for living an authentic life. By acknowledging the finite nature of
existence, individuals are prompted to prioritize meaningful experiences and genuine
connections over superficial pursuits.
Inauthenticity: Inauthenticity, conversely, represents a state of being where individuals
betray their true selves, succumbing to societal norms, external expectations, or conformist
behaviours. Existentialists argue that inauthentic living arises when individuals evade their
freedom, deny their responsibility, and adopt predefined roles dictated by societal
conventions.
Sartre's notion of "bad faith" encapsulates inauthenticity—a self-deceptive act where
individuals deny their freedom, attributing their actions and choices to external factors or
predetermined circumstances. In this state, individuals relinquish their agency, allowing
external influences to dictate their lives. Inauthentic living, according to existentialists, is
marked by a lack of self-awareness and a refusal to confront the responsibilities that come
with radical freedom.
The pursuit of authenticity in existentialism is not devoid of challenges. The inherent freedom
and responsibility that come with authenticity can evoke anxiety and existential dread. The
authentic individual is forced to confront the uncertainties and ambiguities of existence,
navigating a path without predetermined guideposts. However, existentialists argue that this
struggle is an essential aspect of human existence—a journey towards self-realization and the
creation of genuine meaning.
At the core of authenticity and inauthenticity lies the existentialist emphasis on choice.
Existentialists contend that individuals are defined by the choices they make, and authentic
living requires the conscious, deliberate selection of one's path. Confronting the myriad

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possibilities of existence, individuals must make choices that resonate with their true selves,
thereby contributing to the ongoing process of self-definition.
Authenticity and inauthenticity serve as fundamental pillars in the existentialist exploration
of human existence. The call to live authentically beckons individuals to embrace their
freedom, take responsibility for their choices, and navigate the challenges of self-discovery.
In contrast, inauthentic living is viewed as a betrayal of one's essence, a surrender to external
influences, and a denial of the profound agency inherent in human existence. The
existentialist discourse on authenticity remains an enduring and thought-provoking guide for
individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of selfhood, morality, and the quest for
meaning in a world filled with external expectations and existential uncertainties.

4. Absurdity
Absurdity as a theme in existentialism is a notion that often appears in the philosophical
works of renowned thinkers such as Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre. It revolves around
the idea that human existence is inherently devoid of objective meaning or purpose,
ultimately leading individuals to experience a profound sense of absurdity in their lives.
Absurdity, in this context, arises from the clash between the human desire for meaning and
the perceived meaninglessness of existence. Philosophers like Camus argue that life
inherently lacks any inherent purpose or rationality, leaving individuals to navigate a world
that is, fundamentally, absurd. Sartre famously stated, "Existence precedes essence,"
emphasizing that human beings have no predetermined essence or preordained purpose;
rather, they are responsible for creating their own meaning in life.
The absurdity theme becomes central when individuals confront the human condition. The
existentialist philosophy posits that individuals are condemned to freedom - the constant
burden of making choices and decisions without any objective yardstick to guide them. This
existential angst arises from the feeling that every decision made is ultimately
inconsequential, as life itself is seen as without any ultimate significance.
The absurdity theme can be illustrated through the metaphor of Sisyphus, as presented by
Camus. Sisyphus, a character from Greek mythology, is doomed to spend eternity pushing a
rock up a hill, only to watch it roll back down, repeating the task continuously. Camus argues
that Sisyphus represents the human condition: perpetually engaged in meaningless efforts,
knowing that there is no ultimate purpose or success in his actions. It is within this never-
ending cycle that Camus uncovers a sense of rebellion against the absurd, suggesting that true
freedom and fulfillment can be found in accepting and embracing the absurdity of existence.
This rebellion involves acknowledging the absurdity of the universe while actively and
creatively engaging with life. It calls for a rejection of passive acceptance and an embrace of
one's freedom to define meaning in the face of an indifferent cosmos.
5. Anguish

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Anguish, a pervasive theme in existentialism, encapsulates the profound psychological
distress and existential anxiety that individuals experience when confronted with the
uncertainties and complexities of existence. Existentialist philosophers, including Søren
Kierkegaard, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Albert Camus, delve into the concept of anguish to explore
the inherent challenges of human freedom, responsibility, and the quest for meaning.
In existentialist thought, anguish emerges from the awareness of radical freedom—the
daunting realization that individuals must make choices without predetermined guidelines or
external assurances. This existential dread arises when individuals grapple with the weighty
responsibility of shaping their own destinies and confronting the inherent uncertainties of
life.
Sartre, in particular, emphasizes the experience of anguish as a fundamental aspect of human
existence. The anguish arises when individuals recognize the burden of their freedom,
understanding that every choice made contributes to defining their essence. The angst is
heightened by the absence of predetermined values or moral absolutes, leaving individuals
in a state of perpetual uncertainty and self-examination.
Existentialist anguish is not merely a psychological or emotional state; it is an essential part
of the human condition. It reflects the inherent tension between the desire for meaning and
the absence of inherent purpose in the universe. Confronting anguish becomes a pivotal
aspect of the existential journey, prompting individuals to grapple with the challenges of self-
discovery, authenticity, and the perpetual quest for significance in an apparently indifferent
cosmos.
6. Forlornness
Forlornness, a poignant theme in existentialism, encapsulates the profound sense of
abandonment and isolation that individuals experience in their existential journey. This
theme explores the inherent loneliness of human existence, emphasizing the individual's
subjective experience of being alone in a seemingly indifferent or absurd world.
Existentialist philosophers, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, delve into the
concept of forlornness to convey the isolating nature of human freedom. In the absence of
predetermined meanings or external guidance, individuals are left to navigate the vast
expanse of existence on their own. This existential solitude arises from the understanding
that each person must forge their own path, make their own choices, and confront the
uncertainties of life without the assurance of an inherent purpose.
Sartre, in his existentialist exploration, underscores forlornness as an essential component of
human freedom. The isolation emerges from the radical responsibility individuals bear for
their choices, actions, and the construction of their own essence. The awareness of
forlornness, therefore, becomes a fundamental aspect of existential angst, as individuals
grapple with the weighty burden of creating meaning and identity in a seemingly indifferent
universe.
Forlornness is not merely a physical or social state but a psychological and existential reality.
It heightens the individual's awareness of their distinct subjectivity and the absence of

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universal guidance or inherent meaning. In this state of aloneness, individuals are compelled
to confront the stark reality of their existence and seek meaning in the face of a universe that
may appear indifferent or absurd.
Ultimately, the theme of forlornness in existentialism serves as a poignant reminder of the
individual's solitary journey in the quest for authenticity and meaning. It underscores the
inherent loneliness that accompanies the freedom to define one's own existence and the
existential challenge of finding significance amidst the vastness of an apparently indifferent
cosmos.

Existentialism in Literature and Arts

Existentialism, as a philosophical movement, has had a profound impact on literature and the
arts. Its emphasis on individuality, freedom, and the search for meaning in an absurd world
has inspired countless authors, playwrights, poets, and artists to explore and depict the
complexities of human existence.
In literature, existential themes can be found in the works of renowned writers such as Albert
Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, Franz Kafka, and Fyodor Dostoevsky. These authors often focus on
the inner lives and struggles of their characters, delving into existential angst, isolation, and
the search for personal identity.
Albert Camus, for example, is known for his novel "The Stranger" (also known as "The
Outsider"). The story follows the life of Meursault, a detached and indifferent protagonist
who grapples with the meaninglessness of life and the absurdity of human existence. Camus
portrays Meursault's struggle against societal expectations, his resistance to conforming, and
his ultimate acceptance of the absurdity of his own actions.
Franz Kafka's works, such as "The Trial" and "The Metamorphosis," are renowned for their
portrayal of individuals trapped in absurd and incomprehensible situations. These stories
explore the themes of alienation, guilt, and the individual's struggle against an enigmatic and
oppressive system.

Existentialist ideas also permeate theatre. Jean-Paul Sartre, a prominent existential

philosopher, dabbled in playwriting and popularized the concept of "bad faith" through his
plays such as "No Exit." In this work, Sartre explores the existential hell of three characters
locked together in a room, forced to confront themselves and each other. The play raises
questions about the nature of human interaction, personal responsibility, and the essential
truth of one's being.
Existentialist principles have also found expression in poetry. Writers like T.S. Eliot and Arthur
Rimbaud grapple with themes of human existence, alienation, and the search for authenticity
and purpose. Their works often reflect the disillusionment and anxiety that arise from the
confrontation with the absurdity of life.

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In the visual arts, artists like Edvard Munch, Paul Gauguin, and Salvador Dalí have explored
existential themes through their paintings. Munch's famous work "The Scream" portrays a
figure trapped in a moment of existential dread, expressing the profound anguish and despair
of human existence. Gauguin's exploration of non-Western cultures and their more
fundamental connection to nature represents an existentialist response to societal norms and
conventions. Dalí's surrealist art, with its dreamlike and often disturbing imagery, challenges
our perception of reality and confronts the existential questions related to identity, time, and
the self.
In general, existentialism has left an indelible mark on literature and the arts. Its exploration
of human existence, the absurdity of life, and the individual's search for meaning has provided
a rich and fertile ground for literary and artistic expression. Through diverse mediums,
existentialist works continue to provoke contemplation, stimulate reflection, and invite
audiences to confront their fundamental questions about life, purpose, and the role of the
individual in the world.