What is Existentialism? Complete Guide Explained Simply

Introduction

Every morning, as you kick off your day, a profound question lurks in the back of your mind: "Why am I doing all this?" Whether you’re stuck in traffic, sipping your coffee, or gazing out the window during a meeting, this question—simple yet daunting—pops up, inviting you to grapple with something philosophers term "existentialism." This branch of philosophy doesn’t merely ponder existence; it wrestles with the essence of being and asks us to define meaning in our own lives. In an era where technology often distracts us from introspection, understanding existentialism connects us to the core of our human experience and helps us navigate the everyday chaos with clarity and purpose.

What is Existentialism?

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the subjective nature of human experience. To break it down, existentialism posits that life doesn’t come pre-packaged with inherent meaning. Instead, it suggests that each of us is responsible for shaping our own essence and purpose. This core idea challenges the traditional notion that we are born with a specific destiny—or as existentialist philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre put it, "existence precedes essence."

Consider the analogy of a blank canvas. Traditional views might suggest that some people are born with a sketch already on their canvas, dictating what they will become. Existentialism, however, hands you a brush and says, "Create." It’s about embracing the freedom—and the burden—of carving out your own path.

In the real world, this can be seen in career choices. While societal norms might prescribe certain paths based on background or education, existentialism encourages you to pursue what resonates with you personally, even if it defies convention. It’s akin to being the artist of your own life, where every decision adds a brushstroke to a picture that reflects your true self.

How Does It Work?

Diving deeper, existentialism hinges on several key principles that guide its understanding. These principles not only shape philosophical discourse but also influence how individuals perceive their role in the universe.

Firstly, there is Absurdity. This suggests that human beings live in a universe indifferent to their needs, and any search for meaning is inherently chaotic and unreasonable. Imagine working on a jigsaw puzzle without an image to guide you. The task seems futile at first glance, yet the act of piecing it together is where existentialists find significance. The absurdity lies not in the puzzle itself but in the human desire to find order amidst randomness.

Next comes Freedom and Responsibility. Existentialism argues that humans are free to make their own choices, but with that freedom comes the weight of responsibility. Like a choose-your-own-adventure book, your decisions shape your narrative, and you must own the outcomes. This concept of radical freedom can be both exhilarating and intimidating—knowing that, ultimately, you are the architect of your own fate, with no scripts to follow.

Another cornerstone is Authenticity, the pursuit of living true to one's own personality, spirit, or character, despite external pressures. It's like choosing to wear your favorite quirky hat, despite everyone's raised eyebrows. Authenticity is about embracing who you are, without succumbing to the expectations of others.

Finally, existentialism grapples with Angst—a deep-seated anxiety that arises from human freedom and the weight of making meaningful choices. It’s the feeling you get when standing at a crossroads, aware that each path holds potential but also inevitable trade-offs. This existential angst serves as a reminder of both the significance and the burden of choice.

Real-World Examples

Existentialism isn’t just an abstract idea; it's woven into the fabric of everyday life. Consider the story of Steve Jobs, whose life choices reflect the essence of existentialist thinking. Jobs dropped out of college, driven not by traditional success metrics but by a desire to explore his passions. His journey from a garage startup to a tech icon exemplifies the existential belief in shaping one’s own destiny and living authentically.

Another example is the character of Walter White from the television series "Breaking Bad." Faced with a grim diagnosis, Walter turns to a life of crime, driven by a quest for meaning and control over his circumstances. His transformation underscores existential themes of freedom, choice, and the consequences that accompany them.

Then there’s J.K. Rowling, who faced numerous rejections before publishing Harry Potter. Her perseverance highlights existentialism’s focus on authentic self-expression and the relentless pursuit of one’s true calling, regardless of societal barriers or expectations.

Finally, the story of the Vietnam War protestors during the 1960s serves as a broader societal example. These individuals, often young students, exercised their freedom to oppose government action. Their protests exemplified existential principles of personal responsibility and taking a stand against perceived injustices, fueled by their desire for a world more aligned with their values.

Why It Matters

Understanding existentialism is vital because it provides a framework for navigating life’s uncertainties and crafting a personally meaningful existence. In a world cluttered with distractions and external pressures, existentialism empowers individuals to pause, reflect, and ask meaningful questions about their true desires and values. By embracing existentialist thought, one can develop resilience against societal conformity and cultivate a life that resonates with personal authenticity.

Moreover, existentialism encourages active engagement with the world. Rather than passively drifting through life, existentialists advocate for conscious decision-making and self-awareness. This proactive approach fosters personal growth and fulfillment, steering individuals toward paths that align with their authentic selves.

In practical terms, existentialism can enhance mental well-being. By acknowledging the absurdity of life and embracing freedom of choice, individuals can alleviate the burden of existential angst and find solace in the journey of self-discovery. This philosophical lens provides a sense of empowerment, allowing people to construct meaningful lives, even amidst the chaos of modern existence.

Common Misconceptions

One common misconception is that existentialism promotes nihilism—the belief that life is devoid of meaning. While existentialism acknowledges the absence of inherent meaning, it doesn’t resign to despair. Instead, it challenges individuals to create their own meaning, fostering a sense of agency and purpose.

Another misunderstanding is that existentialism encourages selfishness, as it emphasizes individual freedom and authenticity. In reality, existentialism advocates for personal responsibility, which often involves considering the impact of one’s choices on others. Authenticity doesn’t equate to self-centeredness; it’s about aligning actions with true values while respecting others’ freedoms.

Lastly, some perceive existentialism as overly pessimistic. While existentialist themes may appear daunting, they ultimately aim to liberate individuals from societal constraints and facilitate a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship with the world. By embracing existentialism, individuals can find empowerment and meaning, even amidst life’s challenges.

Key Takeaways

Existentialism invites you to actively shape your own life, encouraging freedom, authenticity, and personal responsibility. By understanding this philosophical perspective, you can navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence and purpose. Existentialism isn’t about despair or selfishness; it’s about recognizing the absurdity of life and choosing to create your own meaning. Embrace the freedom to chart your own course, and let existentialism guide you toward a life that resonates with your true self.