Understanding Existentialist Ethics

Existentialist ethics is a way of thinking about right and wrong that comes from a mix of different ideas and events in history. It can be challenging to understand. Let’s break it down.

1. Philosophical Influences:

   • Two main thinkers, Kierkegaard and Nietzsche, really shaped existentialist ideas. They focused on the importance of personal experiences and feelings. This led to a feeling of anxiety about clear rules for what is right and wrong.
   • After World War II, people saw terrible things happen. This caused many to question the old beliefs about ethics and made it harder to find meaning in life.

2. Cultural Context:

   • In the modern world, old values started to fade away. This created a feeling of emptiness for many people. They struggled with feelings of hopelessness in a universe that seemed uncaring.

3. Human Suffering:

   • Thinkers like Sartre and Camus looked directly at the confusion of being human. They recognized that it’s tough to see what is right when you’re feeling hopeless.

To deal with these challenges, it’s essential to focus on personal responsibility. When people accept the idea of being true to themselves and making their own choices, they can create their own rules for right and wrong, even when things feel chaotic.

So, while existentialist ethics can seem complicated, being aware of ourselves and sticking to our own beliefs can help guide us through this confusing moral landscape.