This Essay Is Not About Existentialism

Are you aware of the absurdity of your existence? The philosophy of existentialism, which grew in popularity during the middle of the 20th century, is a doctrine that concerns the state of being here. According to the basic beliefs, the individual is alone in a universe that is meaningless and absurd, and the choices that one make, as a completely free human, define the person and create value in the universe. While I do not agree with the more radical tenets of existentialism, I am in favour of the humanist aspect of this philosophy.

The existentialist philosophy of the complete freedom of the human being is a belief that I agree with. Individuals have the freedom to choose and to act on their own whims. They do not necessarily conform with the fixed human nature or the social norm, but these actions and decisions define the individual. One accepts full responsibility for their actions and in doing so create the value in life. Humans, empowered with this freedom, can ultimately change the world. On the other hand, I disagree with the idea of, “Existence precedes essence.” Life has meaning, and it is up to the individual to discover it. I do not believe in, nor am I aware of, the absurdity of existence itself. Common existentialism is atheist, and this contradicts my beliefs. I classify myself as agnostic, not following any particular religion, but believing in some kind of transcendent power. To quote Albert Camus on this subject, “I do not believe in God and I am not an atheist.” Finally, I do not identify with the belief that all individuals are alone in the universe. As participants of society, there exists an emotional, physical, or spiritual bond between all of us that one cannot sever from. In other words, one cannot be truly alone in the universe as society constantly influences one’s choices and actions.

In conclusion, I find that my outlook on life and the state of existing coincides with several tenets of existentialism. Specifically, I agree with the humanist ideas of this philosophy, as there is no superior being or power that can limit the human potential. As free and empowered individuals, we have the authority and responsibility to change the world.