Existentialism

Existentialism

A philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, particularly in relation to finding meaning in a seemingly indifferent or irrational universe.

Dasein

A concept by Martin Heidegger referring to 'being-there,' representing human existence or the unique way individuals relate to the world.

Inauthentic existence

Living a life dictated by societal norms and external pressures, often leading to loss of personal agency and authenticity.

Authentic existence

Living a life that is true to one's self, values, and commitments, free from the influence of society's expectations.

Subjectivity

The quality of being based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions; in existentialism, it stresses the individual perspective.

Freedom (in existentialism)

The state of being able to act, speak, or think without hindrance or restraint, emphasized as a core aspect of human existence.

Value (existentialist perspective)

A person’s commitment or principle that gives life meaning; subjective and intimately connected with the individual's experience.

Bad faith

Sartre's concept of self-deception or lying to oneself by adopting false values or identities, denying one's freedom and responsibility.

Phenomenological description

A method used by existentialists to analyze human experience by focusing on the structures of consciousness and the meanings those experiences hold.

Limit situations

Circumstances or events that challenge an individual's understanding of themselves and their place in the world, often leading to existential transcendence.

Absolute Value

In the theistic view within existentialism, this refers to a value that exists independently of human perception, grounded in God.

Search for meaning

The ongoing quest of individuals to find purpose and significance in life, viewed as a central existential question.

Theistic existentialism

A viewpoint within existentialism that posits God as the source of meaning and values, contrasting with atheistic viewpoints.

Atheistic existentialism

A viewpoint suggesting that individuals create their own meanings and values in a universe that is indifferent to human existence.

Human existence

The state of being human, characterized by self-awareness and the quest for meaning and authenticity in life.

The crowd mentality

The tendency of individuals to think and act in similar ways to others in a group, often leading to conformity rather than individual thought.