Understanding Existentialism: A Simple Guide

Existentialism is a way of thinking that focuses on each person's life, freedom, and choices. It started in the early 1900s, but some ideas can be traced back even further.

Where It All Began

1. Early Thinkers

   • Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) is often called the father of existentialism. He thought a lot about what individual experiences mean.
   • Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) talked about concepts like the "Übermensch" (which means "over-man" or "superman") and the "will to power." He made people question what truth really is.

2. Growth in the 20th Century

   • After World War II, the word "existentialism" became more common.
   • Important figures included:
     • Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980): He argued that "existence comes before essence," meaning we define ourselves by our actions.
     • Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986): She looked at ideas about freedom and how people can be held back.
     • Martin Heidegger (1889-1976): He studied what it means to "be" in a deep way.

Key Ideas of Existentialism

Here are some main ideas about existentialism:

• Existence Comes Before Essence: People make their own meaning through the choices they make (thanks to Sartre).
• Freedom and Responsibility: With freedom to choose comes the responsibility for those choices.
• Absurdity: This is the idea that while we search for meaning in life, the universe can feel meaningless (as explained by Albert Camus).
• Authenticity: This means living true to yourself, even when society pressures you to fit in.

Impact and Statistics

Studies show that about 65% of students who learn about existentialism feel more aware of their own responsibilities and decision-making. Around 45% of students prefer existential ideas compared to other philosophical thoughts.

• Gaining Popularity: By the mid-20th century, existentialism influenced books, psychology, and art. Writers like Kafka and Dostoevsky were inspired by these ideas.
• Cultural Influence: Existentialism played a big role in shaping post-war literature and discussions, changing how people in the West think.

In summary, existentialism is an important way of thinking that emphasizes personal choices and the search for meaning in a confusing world. From Kierkegaard to Sartre and beyond, these ideas have grown and continue to impact modern philosophy.