Existentialism A philosophic way of viewing the world and life

Learning Goals Students will understand the philosophy of existentialism including the thoughts of key existential figures. Scales I can teach existential theory to someone I understand most of it but could use some review I can participate in a conversation about it I only understand the bigger concepts of existentialism I do not understand any of it

Existentialism Basics There is nothing after life. An individual has no essential nature, no self- identity. Truth is subjective. The universe has no rational direction or scheme. Individual actions are unpredictable. Individuals have complete freedom of will. Individuals cannot help but make choices. An individual can become something completely different than what he is.

Existentialist People Soren Kierkegaard ( ) Friedrich Nietzsche ( ) Martin Heidegger ( ) Jean-Paul Sartre ( )

Kierkegaard Ambiguity and absurdity define the human situation. The individual must live a totally committed life, which will only be understood by the individual. Believed in taking a leap of faith into a Christian life. Believed this Christian faith would be the only thing to save an individual from despair. The father of Christian Existentialism.

Nietzsche Tragic pessimism defines life. The individual will oppose itself to the moral conformity of the majority. Proclaimed the death of God and rejected the entire Judeo-Christian moral tradition.

Heidegger Humanity lives in an incomprehensible, indifferent world. Human beings will never understand why we are here. Each individual must choose a goal and follow it with passionate conviction, aware of the certainty of death and the ultimate meaninglessness of life.

Sartre Atheist and pessimistic. Humans require a rational basis for their lives but are unable to achieve this, thus life is a futile passion. Emphasizes human freedom, choice, and responsibility.

Wrap-Up What are your thoughts after learning about existentialism? Is this philosophy pessimistic or is there more to it? Write at least one thing that you agree with. Explain. Write at least two things that you disagree with. Explain.

Learning Goals Students will understand the philosophy of existentialism including the thoughts of key existential figures. Scales I can teach existential theory to someone I understand most of it but could use some review I can participate in a conversation about it I only understand the bigger concepts of exisitentialism I do not understand any of it