Existentialism (Noun)
Meaning
(philosophy) a 20th-century philosophical movement chiefly in Europe; assumes that people are entirely free and thus responsible for what they make of themselves.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- Existentialism emphasizes individual freedom and choice, and the inherent meaninglessness of life, which can be both empowering and terrifying.
- The philosopher's concept of existentialism was rooted in the idea that human beings must create their own purpose in life.
- Existentialism is often associated with the works of Jean-Paul Sartre, who argued that human beings have complete freedom to choose their actions.
- The novel explores themes of existentialism, as the protagonist grapples with the meaninglessness of life and the weight of personal responsibility.
- In existentialism, the individual is seen as the sole creator of their own values and meaning, unencumbered by external authority or tradition.