eksistentialismissa

Eksistentialismissa is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It suggests that human beings are born into a universe without inherent meaning or purpose, and it is up to each individual to create their own meaning through their actions and decisions. This existential freedom, however, also carries the burden of responsibility for one's choices and their consequences.

A central tenet of eksistentialism is the idea of "existence precedes essence." This means that individuals are not born with a predetermined nature or purpose, but rather they define themselves through their lived experiences. There is no universal human nature to which everyone conforms. Instead, each person is unique and is the author of their own life.

Key themes in eksistentialism include anxiety, dread, absurdity, and authenticity. Anxiety and dread arise from the awareness of freedom and the responsibility that comes with it, as well as the realization of the lack of inherent meaning in the universe. The absurd refers to the conflict between humanity's inherent search for meaning and the universe's apparent meaninglessness. Authenticity is achieved by embracing one's freedom and responsibility, living in accordance with one's self-created values, rather than conforming to societal expectations or denying one's freedom.

Prominent figures associated with eksistentialism include Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Simone de Beauvoir, and Søren Kierkegaard. While these thinkers shared many core ideas, they also had distinct perspectives and contributed to the diverse interpretations of existential thought. Eksistentialism has had a significant impact on literature, psychology, and theology, influencing how we understand the human condition.