The idea that existence comes before essence is a key concept in existentialist thinking. It changes how we usually think about life and purpose.
Essence vs. Existence: In the past, philosophers like Aristotle believed that essence (what something is meant to be) comes before existence (the actual being of something). For example, the essence of a knife is to cut; that’s its purpose. But existentialists say that we are born without a set purpose.
Freedom and Responsibility: This viewpoint stresses that we have personal freedom and must take responsibility for our choices. If we create our own essence through our decisions, we can’t blame others or outside factors for who we become.
Illustration: Think of a blank canvas. Before any paint is put on it, the canvas has no purpose or meaning. It’s only when the artist starts painting that it gains meaning, just like how we shape our own identities in life.
This idea encourages us to think about how we define ourselves, instead of just following what society expects from us.
The idea that existence comes before essence is a key concept in existentialist thinking. It changes how we usually think about life and purpose.
Essence vs. Existence: In the past, philosophers like Aristotle believed that essence (what something is meant to be) comes before existence (the actual being of something). For example, the essence of a knife is to cut; that’s its purpose. But existentialists say that we are born without a set purpose.
Freedom and Responsibility: This viewpoint stresses that we have personal freedom and must take responsibility for our choices. If we create our own essence through our decisions, we can’t blame others or outside factors for who we become.
Illustration: Think of a blank canvas. Before any paint is put on it, the canvas has no purpose or meaning. It’s only when the artist starts painting that it gains meaning, just like how we shape our own identities in life.
This idea encourages us to think about how we define ourselves, instead of just following what society expects from us.