Existentialism is a philosophy that looks at the important link between freedom and responsibility in a deep way. At its heart, existentialism says that people are truly free to make their own choices. But with this freedom comes the responsibility for what those choices lead to.
Freedom of Choice: Existentialists believe that everyone has the power to shape their own future. For example, a college graduate might have to choose between getting a traditional job or following a risky career in art. This choice shows how personal freedom works.
Weight of Responsibility: Every choice we make can have consequences. Choosing to be an artist might lead to some instability, but it can also bring great personal happiness. This creates a conflict: while we are free to make choices, we might feel anxious about whether we're making the "right" decision.
Illustration: Think about Jean-Paul Sartre's idea of "bad faith." This means that some people shy away from their responsibilities by just going along with what society expects. Instead of taking charge of their own decisions, they blame outside factors, which takes away their freedom.
In simple terms, existentialism teaches us that being free isn't just about doing whatever we want. It also comes with the heavy responsibility of accepting our choices and understanding how they affect our lives.
Existentialism is a philosophy that looks at the important link between freedom and responsibility in a deep way. At its heart, existentialism says that people are truly free to make their own choices. But with this freedom comes the responsibility for what those choices lead to.
Freedom of Choice: Existentialists believe that everyone has the power to shape their own future. For example, a college graduate might have to choose between getting a traditional job or following a risky career in art. This choice shows how personal freedom works.
Weight of Responsibility: Every choice we make can have consequences. Choosing to be an artist might lead to some instability, but it can also bring great personal happiness. This creates a conflict: while we are free to make choices, we might feel anxious about whether we're making the "right" decision.
Illustration: Think about Jean-Paul Sartre's idea of "bad faith." This means that some people shy away from their responsibilities by just going along with what society expects. Instead of taking charge of their own decisions, they blame outside factors, which takes away their freedom.
In simple terms, existentialism teaches us that being free isn't just about doing whatever we want. It also comes with the heavy responsibility of accepting our choices and understanding how they affect our lives.