Existentialism is one of the most intriguing and empowering philosophical ideas of the modern era. It explores the biggest of life’s enquiries: What does it mean to exist? Can we discover purpose in a meaningless universe? Philosophers like Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus have investigated these profound ideas, providing us with valuable insights into how we can navigate the complexities of human existence in a world without predefined purpose.
At the heart of existentialist thought is the idea that we exist before we find purpose. This means that we are born without any predefined meaning, and it is philosophy up to us to create meaning in our lives. Sartre famously said, “We are condemned to be free,” indicating that while we have the absolute freedom to determine our path, this freedom also comes with the weight of responsibility. For some, this is an intimidating idea, but for existential philosophers, it’s an invitation to embrace life’s challenges and live with authenticity, without being limited by social norms.
Existentialist thought challenges us to embrace the power of choice, to face life’s absurdities with courage, and to discover purpose in the things we pursue, whether it’s through artistic expression, human connections, or simply the daily experience of life. While life may not have a larger, inherent meaning, this philosophy reminds us that we have the freedom to craft our own significance. And in doing so, we can achieve deeply meaningful lives, even in the face of life’s unknowns.