Existentialism: Crash Course Philosophy #16

Summary

This Crash Course Philosophy episode delves into the search for life's meaning, contrasting essentialism—the belief in a predetermined purpose—with existentialism, which posits that existence precedes essence. It explores Friedrich Nietzsche's nihilism and Jean-Paul Sartre's concept of 'condemned to be free,' highlighting the individual's responsibility to create their own meaning in an inherently meaningless universe. The episode encourages embracing the freedom to define one's own essence and purpose, suggesting that existentialism offers both a daunting and exhilarating perspective on life.

Takeaways

• 🧐 The video discusses the search for meaning in life, exploring various avenues such as religion, social justice, education, and art.
• 🤔 It introduces existentialists who believe that life can have meaning, but also that it inherently lacks any predetermined purpose.
• 📚 The script contrasts essentialism, the belief that everything has an inherent essence and purpose, with existentialism, which posits that existence precedes essence.
• 👶 Essentialism suggests that our purpose is given to us before birth, while existentialism argues that we are born without a set purpose and must create our own.
• 💭 Friedrich Nietzsche is highlighted as a philosopher who embraced nihilism, the belief in the ultimate meaninglessness of life.
• 🇫🇷 Jean-Paul Sartre is presented as a key figure in existentialism, proposing that we are 'condemned to be free' and must create our own essence.
• 🌐 The concept of 'the absurd' in existentialism is explained as the human search for meaning in a universe devoid of inherent meaning.
• 🏛 The script mentions that existentialism is not synonymous with atheism, as some existentialists, like Kierkegaard, believe in God but reject the idea of a purposeful creation.
• 🚫 Existentialists argue against teleology, the belief that there is a purpose or end goal to existence, suggesting instead that life is purposeless.
• 🛑 Sartre's idea of 'authentic living' is discussed, emphasizing the importance of living life with full acceptance of one's freedom and creating one's own values.
• 🌟 The video concludes by suggesting that existentialism can be seen as both bleak and exhilarating, as it places the onus of finding meaning squarely on the individual.

Q & A

What is the central theme of the Crash Course Philosophy episode on existentialism?

The central theme of the episode is the exploration of existentialism, particularly the idea that 'existence precedes essence,' and how individuals find or create meaning in a world that is inherently devoid of inherent purpose.

What is essentialism, and how does it differ from existentialism?

Essentialism is the belief that everything, including humans, has an inherent essence or purpose. It contrasts with existentialism, which posits that individuals first exist and then must create their own essence or purpose in life.

Who are some philosophers mentioned in the script that contributed to the development of existentialist thought?

The script mentions Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, and alludes to Kierkegaard as philosophers who contributed to the development of existentialist thought.

What is the concept of 'the absurd' in existentialism?

In existentialism, 'the absurd' refers to the human search for meaning and purpose in a universe that is inherently meaningless. It is the conflict between the human desire for significance and the absence of inherent meaning in the world.

What does Sartre mean by 'condemned to be free'?

Sartre's phrase 'condemned to be free' suggests that individuals are burdened with the responsibility of creating their own meaning and moral code in life, as there are no predetermined guidelines or purposes.

What is the significance of the young man's dilemma in Sartre's anecdote?

The young man's dilemma illustrates the existential concept of authentic choice. He must make a decision without external guidance, which will be authentic only if it is based on his own chosen values.

How does existentialism view the concept of freedom?

Existentialism views freedom as a daunting and overwhelming responsibility. It suggests that without any predetermined purpose or moral guidelines, individuals must forge their own path and create their own meaning.

What is the relationship between existentialism and the belief in God?

Existentialism is not synonymous with atheism. While many existentialists are atheists, some, like Kierkegaard, are theists. However, what they share is the rejection of teleology—the idea that God has a predetermined purpose for the universe or human life.

What is the role of 'bad faith' in Sartre's existentialism?

In Sartre's existentialism, 'bad faith' is the act of denying one's freedom and authenticity by choosing to live according to the expectations or values imposed by others, rather than embracing the responsibility to create one's own meaning.

How does the script describe the potential impact of existentialism on an individual's life choices?

The script suggests that existentialism empowers individuals to assign their own meaning to their lives and the world, free from external standards or expectations. This can lead to a sense of exhilaration for some, as they realize they have the freedom to shape their own destiny.

What is the final message of the episode regarding the creation of meaning in life?

The final message is that meaning in life is not given but must be actively created by individuals. Despite the absence of inherent purpose, one can find or create meaning through personal choice and authentic living.