Existentialism Explained: A Philosophy of Freedom, Anxiety, and Meaning

At its core, existentialism is a philosophy that focuses on individual freedom, choice, and the inherent meaninglessness of life. It explores the fundamental nature of human existence, emphasizing personal responsibility and the creation of meaning in an otherwise indifferent universe. The existentialist viewpoint challenges us to confront life’s uncertainties and embrace the freedom to shape our own destiny.

In this article, we will explore the key concepts of existentialism, its major thinkers, and how this philosophy has influenced literature, art, and our understanding of life itself.

What is Existentialism?

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that began in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in Europe. It arose as a response to the traditional philosophical and religious frameworks that sought to explain the meaning and purpose of life. Existentialists reject the idea that life has an inherent or predetermined meaning, and instead argue that individuals must create their own meaning through their choices and actions.

Key Themes in Existentialism:

1. Freedom and Responsibility – The freedom to make choices, coupled with the responsibility to live with those choices.
2. Absurdity – The tension between humans’ search for meaning and the chaotic, indifferent universe that provides no inherent answers.
3. Authenticity – Living genuinely, true to oneself, and not conforming to societal expectations or false beliefs.
4. Angst and Anxiety – The existential dread and anxiety that arise when we confront the freedom of choice and the uncertainty of existence.
5. Death – The awareness of our mortality, which existentialists see as a driving force behind our desire to live authentically.

The Roots of Existentialism

Though existentialism as a formal movement emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, many of its ideas can be traced back to earlier philosophers. Some key philosophical precursors include:

• Søren Kierkegaard (1813–1855): Often considered the “father of existentialism,” Kierkegaard focused on individual choice, faith, and the anguish of human existence. He emphasized the importance of the “leap of faith,” arguing that in the face of uncertainty, one must take a personal leap toward belief and meaning.
• Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900): Nietzsche’s declaration that “God is dead” symbolizes the end of traditional religious and moral frameworks. Nietzsche advocated for the creation of new values and the concept of the Übermensch (Overman), a figure who transcends conventional morality to live authentically.

Major Existentialist Thinkers

1. Jean-Paul Sartre (1905–1980)

Sartre is perhaps the most famous existentialist philosopher, and his work laid the foundation for much of the modern existentialist movement. His most significant contributions include the concepts of freedom and bad faith.

• Freedom and Choice: Sartre famously declared, “Existence precedes essence,” meaning that humans are not born with a predefined purpose or nature. Instead, we create our own essence through the choices we make. We are radically free to define ourselves and our existence.
• Bad Faith: Sartre argued that people often deceive themselves (i.e., live in “bad faith”) to avoid facing the anxiety and responsibility of freedom. For example, a person might justify their conformity to societal expectations by claiming that they have no other choice, even though they are free to choose differently.
• Authenticity: Sartre emphasized that we must live authentically by acknowledging our freedom, accepting the responsibility that comes with it, and creating our own meaning in life.

2. Simone de Beauvoir (1908–1986)

A key figure in both existentialism and feminism, Simone de Beauvoir examined the existential condition of women and their struggle for freedom and self-definition.

• The Second Sex: In her seminal work The Second Sex, de Beauvoir explored how women have historically been defined as the “Other” in relation to men, and how this has limited their freedom. She argued that women, like all individuals, must transcend societal roles and assert their own freedom and identity.
• Freedom and Ambiguity: De Beauvoir believed that both men and women must confront the ambiguity of existence and take responsibility for their own lives. Her work intersects existentialism with feminist theory, focusing on issues of oppression and liberation.

3. Albert Camus (1913–1960)

Although often associated with existentialism, Albert Camus emphasized a slightly different approach known as absurdism.

• The Absurd: Camus’s central idea is that human beings have an innate desire to find meaning in life, yet the universe is indifferent and provides no inherent meaning. This creates the absurd condition—the conflict between our search for meaning and the silence of the universe.
• Revolt Against the Absurd: Despite acknowledging the absurdity of life, Camus argued that we should not fall into despair or nihilism. Instead, we should embrace life’s meaninglessness and continue to live fully, finding joy and freedom in the face of absurdity. This is exemplified in his idea of revolt—living authentically and without appeal to false hopes.

Core Concepts of Existentialism

1. Freedom and Responsibility

A key tenet of existentialism is the belief in radical freedom. Existentialists argue that humans are not determined by fate, genetics, or society but are free to make their own choices. This freedom comes with a heavy responsibility—since there are no predefined values or purposes, individuals must take responsibility for creating their own meaning and shaping their lives.

2. Absurdity and the Search for Meaning

Existentialism acknowledges that life can often seem meaningless or absurd, particularly when we are confronted with the vastness of the universe and the inevitability of death. Philosophers like Camus and Sartre argued that while the universe may be indifferent to our existence, it is still up to us to create meaning in our lives through our actions, relationships, and choices.

3. Authenticity

Living authentically means being true to oneself, acting in accordance with one’s own values, and taking full responsibility for one’s actions. Existentialists argue that many people live inauthentic lives by conforming to societal expectations, religious dogma, or other external influences. To live authentically, we must confront our fears, embrace our freedom, and choose how to live.

4. Anxiety and Dread

Existentialists often speak of the feeling of angst or anxiety that arises when we face the vastness of existence and the responsibility that comes with our freedom. This sense of dread is tied to the realization that life has no inherent meaning, and we must create our own. While this anxiety can be overwhelming, existentialists argue that it is also a sign of our freedom and our ability to shape our own destinies.

5. Death and the Absence of Meaning

Existentialism emphasizes the reality of death and the impermanence of life. For existentialists, the awareness of death serves as a catalyst for living authentically. In confronting death, we are reminded of our finite nature and urged to live with purpose and urgency. Sartre and Heidegger both explored how the awareness of mortality shapes human existence.

Existentialism in Literature and Art

Existentialist ideas have not only influenced philosophy but also literature, film, and art. Existentialist writers, such as Franz Kafka, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Samuel Beckett, have captured the essence of the existential struggle in their works. Themes of alienation, absurdity, and the search for meaning pervade their writing.

• Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis: The protagonist, Gregor Samsa, wakes up one day to find himself transformed into an insect, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the absurdity and alienation of modern life.
• Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot: Beckett’s famous play portrays two characters, Vladimir and Estragon, who wait for a mysterious figure named Godot, questioning the meaning of life and human existence in the process.

The Relevance of Existentialism Today

Existentialism remains highly relevant today as we navigate a world marked by rapid change, uncertainty, and the search for meaning. The philosophical themes of existentialism resonate with modern concerns about identity, freedom, and responsibility.

• Mental Health: Existentialist ideas about confronting the inherent uncertainty of life and finding personal meaning can help individuals deal with existential anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
• Modern Society: In a world of social media, consumerism, and constant distraction, existentialism offers a path to authenticity and self-reflection, urging us to live consciously and true to our values.

Conclusion: The Power of Existentialism

Existentialism invites us to confront the fundamental questions of life, embracing our freedom, accepting responsibility, and creating meaning in a world that offers no inherent answers. It challenges us to live authentically, to acknowledge the absurdity of existence, and to confront our deepest fears with courage.

By embracing existentialism, we are reminded that life is not about waiting for meaning to be handed to us—it is about actively creating it.

What do you think—how has existentialism shaped your understanding of life? Share your reflections and join the conversation!