Eksistentialistit

Eksistentialistit, or existentialists, are a group of philosophers who explore fundamental questions about human existence. A central tenet is the belief that existence precedes essence. This means that individuals are born without a predetermined purpose or nature, and they must create their own meaning through their choices and actions. There is no inherent human nature or divine plan guiding their lives.

Key themes in existentialist thought include freedom, responsibility, anxiety, and the search for meaning in a seemingly absurd world. Existentialists emphasize radical freedom and the profound responsibility that comes with it. Every choice an individual makes contributes to defining who they are. This freedom, however, can lead to anxiety and a sense of dread as individuals grapple with the weight of their choices and the lack of external validation.

Famous existentialist thinkers include Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Simone de Beauvoir, and Søren Kierkegaard, though their individual interpretations and emphases vary. While often associated with atheism, some existentialists, like Kierkegaard, explored religious faith from an existential perspective. Existentialism has influenced various fields, including literature, psychology, and theology, offering a framework for understanding the human condition and the challenges of living an authentic life.