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existentialism

Existentialism (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ˌɛg zɪˈstɛn ʃəˌlɪz əm/

What does existentialism mean?

The emphasis of an individual's existence and subjective experience as the starting point for understanding the meaning and purpose of life.
"Existentialists believe that individuals create their own meaning in life."

Detailed Meaning of Existentialism

Existentialism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the 20th century, particularly in Europe. It contends that each individual is responsible for creating their own meaning in an absurd and uncertain world. Existentialists reject the notion of predetermined or objective meaning and instead focus on the individual's freedom, choice, and authenticity. They explore themes such as freedom, anxiety, despair, and the search for personal identity. Existentialism often delves into questions about the existence of God, the nature of human existence, and the inevitability of mortality. Key existentialist thinkers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, have explored the concepts of existential angst, the pursuit of individuality, and the importance of personal responsibility. Existentialism encourages individuals to confront the inherent uncertainties and complexities of life and to take active responsibility for their own choices and actions.

Example Sentences for Existentialism

1. Existentialism emphasizes individual existence and subjective experience.
2. The philosophy of existentialism rejects predetermined meaning and encourages personal responsibility.
3. Existentialism explores themes of freedom, choice, and authenticity.
4. The writings of Jean-Paul Sartre are often associated with existentialism.
5. Existentialism examines the nature of human existence and the search for personal identity.
6. Existentialist thinkers contemplate the anxiety and despair inherent in human existence.

Origin and Etymology of Existentialism

The term 'existentialism' finds its etymological roots in the combination of two elements: 'existential' and the suffix '-ism.' The word 'existential' is derived from the Latin word 'existere,' which consists of 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'sistere' meaning 'to stand.' This reflects the idea of standing out or coming into being. The addition of the suffix '-ism' signifies a system of thought or belief. Therefore, 'existentialism' essentially conveys a philosophical perspective that places emphasis on an individual's existence and subjective experience as the starting point for understanding the meaning and purpose of life. It underscores the idea that individuals stand out in their existence, and it is from this vantage point that they grapple with questions of meaning and existence, rooted in the etymology of its constituent parts.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun existentialism:

philosophy

conformism

dogmatism

materialism

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More Usage Examples of Existentialism

1. Existentialism challenges traditional notions of objective truth and meaning.
2. The existentialist movement emerged in the 20th century.
3. Existentialism delves into questions of mortality and the existence of God.
4. Existentialism encourages individuals to confront life's uncertainties and complexities.
5. Existentialist literature often portrays characters struggling with the meaning of their existence.
6. Existentialism explores life's purpose through individual experience and choices.
7. The core of existentialism lies in the quest for personal meaning.
8. Existentialism challenges us to confront our own existence head-on.
9. In existentialism, existence precedes essence, defining human nature.
10. Existentialism delves into the complexities of human existence.
11. Existentialism asserts our responsibility for creating our own meaning.
12. Existentialism's roots trace back to Sartre and Camus's philosophies.
13. Camus' "The Stranger" embodies the essence of existentialism.
14. Existentialism encourages authenticity and living in the present.
15. Existentialism wrestles with the anguish of individual existence.
16. Existentialism contends that life's meaning is self-constructed.
17. The existentialist perspective values individual freedom greatly.
18. Existentialism calls for embracing life's inherent uncertainties.
19. Existentialism emphasizes the uniqueness of each person's journey.
20. Nietzsche's work laid the groundwork for existentialist thought.
21. Existentialism posits that existence is a subjective experience.
22. Existentialism seeks to liberate individuals from societal norms.
23. Existentialism grapples with the absurdity of human existence.
24. Existentialism finds beauty in the existential choices we make.
25. In existentialism, the individual is the author of their destiny.