Existentialism :
This blog is part of Flipped learning-bridge course on Existentialism assigned by Dilip Barad sir. Click Here
What is Flipped Learning?
Existentialism is a philosophical movement that focuses on ideas like personal freedom, individuality, and the importance of emotions. While it is often linked to Jean-Paul Sartre, the movement has roots in earlier thinkers like Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Fyodor Dostoevsky. Over time, philosophers like Martin Heidegger, Franz Kafka, Albert Camus, and Simone de Beauvoir have contributed to its development.
Video 2: The Myth of Sisyphus:
The Absurdity of Life: Understanding Camus’ The Myth of Sisyphus :
Albert Camus’ The Myth of Sisyphus explores the idea that life is absurd—meaning it has no inherent purpose—and questions how we should respond to this realization. He argues that the most important philosophical issue is whether life is worth living, as many who feel lost or hopeless may contemplate suicide.
The Question of Suicide :
Camus considers suicide the ultimate philosophical question, as it reflects a person’s struggle with life’s meaninglessness. He states that if life has no clear purpose, people may feel tempted to give up. However, he challenges this reasoning, suggesting that just because life lacks inherent meaning does not mean it is not worth living.
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Existentialists believe that life has no inherent meaning, and to escape this endless cycle, one must either end their life (physical suicide) or completely surrender to a belief system (philosophical suicide). However, Camus argues that there is another way—one can accept life’s absurdity and still choose to live with awareness and freedom.
Video 3: The Myth of Sisyphus: the notion of philosophical suicide :
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Camus and the Concept of the Absurd :
This text explores Albert Camus' idea of the absurd, which arises from the clash between human desire for meaning and the world's indifference. Camus distinguishes between acknowledging the absurd and truly embracing it, rejecting both religious faith and existentialist attempts to find deeper meaning. He criticizes "philosophical suicide"—seeking comfort in illusions—and instead argues for accepting the absurd with courage, facing life without escape or false hope.
Video 4: Dadaism, Nihilism and Existentialism :
Dadaism: A Rebellion Against Tradition :
Emerging in 1916 as a reaction to World War I, Dadaism was less an art movement and more a radical protest against the values that led to war. Rather than creating new ideals, its founders—including Hugo Ball and Jean Arp—sought to dismantle existing ones. Rooted in skepticism and defiance, Dada challenged societal norms, using absurdity and chaos to expose the flaws of civilization.
Video 5: Existentialism - a gloomy philosophy :
Is Existentialism a Pessimistic Philosophy?
Existentialism is often seen as dark and depressing because it deals with anxiety, despair, and absurdity. However, these ideas are not meant to spread negativity but to help people confront and overcome them. Emerging after World War II, existentialism responded to a world filled with despair, offering a way to find meaning and purpose despite life’s uncertainties.
Video 6: Existentialism and Nihilism: Is it one and the same?
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Existentialism vs. Nihilism: Understanding the Difference :
Though often confused, existentialism and nihilism are fundamentally different. Existentialists reject nihilism, seeing it as a denial of meaning that leads to despair. Instead, they emphasize personal responsibility in creating one’s own purpose.
- Kierkegaard sees nihilism as a loss of individuality and argues that true meaning comes from personal experience and self-discovery.
- Nietzsche warns that nihilism arises when values lose meaning, urging people to create their own beliefs and embrace life.
- Cioran explores despair and suicide but remains passive, highlighting the dangers of giving in to nihilism.
- Camus promotes rebellion against life's absurdity, encouraging people to live meaningfully despite its lack of inherent purpose.
All these philosophers stress that resisting nihilism requires action, creativity, and engagement with life. Rather than surrendering to despair, existentialism challenges individuals to shape their own existence with courage and authenticity.
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Sartre shared the story of a young man facing a tough choice: should he join the military to fight for a cause or stay home to care for his elderly mother? Existentialism teaches that there is no universal rule to guide him—only he can decide what is right. His choice will have meaning only if it reflects his true values and personal responsibility.
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