"Existentialism is a form of philosophical inquiry that explores the issue of human existence."
The study of human existence, freedom, and individuality.
Existentialism: Existentialism is a philosophical movement and approach that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It is concerned with finding meaning and purpose in life, while acknowledging the inherent uncertainty and absurdity of the human condition.
Phenomenology: Phenomenology is a branch of philosophy that focuses on the examination of experience and consciousness. It seeks to understand the structures of subjective experience and the ways in which individuals perceive and interpret the world around them.
Nihilism: Nihilism is the belief that life has no inherent meaning, value, or purpose. It is often associated with existentialism, as both movements share a concern with the inherent uncertainties and absurdities of the human condition.
Authenticity: Authenticity is a concept in existentialism that relates to the idea of being true to oneself and one's own individual nature. It involves acknowledging and accepting one's own values, beliefs, and desires, and living life in accordance with them.
Freedom: Freedom is a central theme in existentialism, and refers to the idea that individuals have the ability to make free choices and determine their own paths in life. It is often contrasted with determinism, the belief that all events are determined by prior causes.
Anxiety: Anxiety is a common theme in existentialist thought, and refers to the feeling of unease or apprehension that arises from the uncertainty and unpredictability of human existence. It is often seen as a natural consequence of the human condition, and a necessary part of individual growth and self-awareness.
Death: Death is a major preoccupation in existentialist thought, and is seen as a fundamental part of the human condition. It raises questions about mortality, the nature of consciousness, and the possibility of an afterlife or ultimate meaning.
Responsibility: Existentialism emphasizes the concept of responsibility, both to oneself and to others. It involves recognizing the consequences of one's actions and choices, and taking ownership of one's own life and decisions.
Alienation: Alienation is a feeling of disconnection or estrangement that individuals may experience in modern society. It is often associated with existentialism, as the movement seeks to address the sense of isolation and meaninglessness that can arise from living in a world without absolute values or meaning.
Individualism: Individualism is a key theme in existentialism, and emphasizes the importance of personal freedom and choice. It is often contrasted with collectivism, the belief that the needs of the group or society are more important than those of the individual.
"Existentialist philosophers explore questions related to the meaning, purpose, and value of human existence."
"Common concepts in existentialist thought include existential crisis, dread, and anxiety in the face of an absurd world, as well as authenticity, courage, and virtue."
"Among the earliest figures associated with existentialism are philosophers Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, and novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky."
"All of them critiqued rationalism and concerned themselves with the problem of meaning."
"Prominent existentialist thinkers included Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Martin Heidegger, Simone de Beauvoir, Karl Jaspers, Gabriel Marcel, and Paul Tillich."
"Classical and contemporary thinkers include C.L.R James, Frederick Douglass, W.E.B DuBois, Frantz Fanon, Angela Davis, Cornell West, Naomi Zack, Stuart Hall, bell hooks, Lewis Gordon, and Audre Lorde."
"Many existentialists considered traditional systematic or academic philosophies, in style and content, to be too abstract and removed from concrete human experience."
"A primary virtue in existentialist thought is authenticity."
"Existentialism would influence many disciplines outside of philosophy, including theology, drama, art, literature, and psychology."
"A central tenet of existentialism is that personal freedom, individual responsibility, and deliberate choice are essential to the pursuit of self-discovery and the determination of life's meaning." Note: The remaining questions will not have direct quotes within the paragraph.