Is Existentialism Related to Humanism?

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Martha Robinson

Existentialism and Humanism are two philosophies that have been debated for decades. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences. The question is – are Existentialism and Humanism related?

What is Existentialism?

Existentialism is a philosophy that emphasizes individual freedom and choice. It suggests that individuals are free to make their own choices in life, rather than being determined by external factors such as societal norms or religious beliefs. Existentialists believe that individuals should take responsibility for their own lives and create their own meaning and purpose.

What is Humanism?

Humanism is a philosophy that emphasizes the value of human beings, their individuality, and their ability to reason. It suggests that human beings have inherent worth and dignity, regardless of external factors such as race, gender, or social status. Humanists believe in the importance of human potential and the pursuit of knowledge.

Are Existentialism and Humanism Related?

While there are similarities between Existentialism and Humanism, they are not directly related. Both philosophies emphasize the importance of individuality and personal freedom, but they approach these concepts differently.

Existentialism focuses on the individual’s responsibility for creating their own meaning in life. It suggests that individuals must confront the absurdity of existence and make choices based on their own values and beliefs.

Humanism focuses on the inherent value of human beings and their potential for growth and development. It suggests that individuals should strive to reach their full potential through education, self-improvement, and social progress.

While both philosophies place an emphasis on personal freedom, they differ in terms of how this freedom should be exercised. Existentialists suggest that individuals must create meaning in a world without inherent purpose or structure, while humanists suggest that human beings have inherent worth and dignity that should be celebrated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Existentialism and Humanism share similarities, they are not directly related. Existentialism focuses on individual responsibility for creating meaning in life, while Humanism focuses on the inherent value of human beings and their potential for growth and development.