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