Definition

Noun: 1. A 20th-century philosophical movement: A school of thought, primarily developed in Europe, that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It asserts that humans are not defined by a predetermined essence but are radically free and responsible for creating their own meaning and values through their actions and decisions.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The novel's themes of angst and authenticity are deeply influenced by existential philosophy.
  • She wrote her thesis on the development of existential philosophy in post-war France.
  • For thinkers in existential philosophy, existence precedes essence.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term is often used adjectivally to describe concepts, questions, or crises related to this philosophical movement.
  • He was going through an existential philosophy crisis, questioning the very purpose of his career.
  • The film poses an existential philosophy question: what does it mean to live an authentic life?

Variants and Related Words

• Existentialism (n): The more common term for this philosophical movement; often used interchangeably with "existential philosophy."
• Existential (adj): Of or relating to existence, especially human existence. Describing a profound concern with questions of meaning, freedom, and isolation (e.g., ).
• Existentialist (n/adj): (A person) who advocates or adheres to existential philosophy.

Synonyms

• Existentialism: The direct synonym.
• Philosophy of existence: A descriptive synonym.

Related Concepts & Key Figures

• Core Themes: Often associated with concepts such as absurdity, authenticity, anguish, despair, freedom, and responsibility.
• Major Philosophers: Key thinkers include Søren Kierkegaard (a forerunner), Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Albert Camus, and Martin Heidegger.

Noun

1. (philosophy) a 20th-century philosophical movement chiefly in Europe; assumes that people are entirely free and thus responsible for what they make of themselves