Is Existentialism Still Relevant Today?

//

Jane Flores

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, primarily in Europe. It emphasizes individual freedom and choice, as well as the inherent meaninglessness of life. Its proponents suggest that individuals must create their own sense of purpose in life, rather than relying on external sources such as religion or society.

Despite its origins nearly a century ago, existentialism remains relevant today. In fact, its core principles have become increasingly important in an age where technology has made us more disconnected from each other and from our own emotions.

One of the key tenets of existentialism is the idea that we must take responsibility for our own lives. This means acknowledging our limitations and failures, but also recognizing that we have the power to shape our own destiny. In an era where many people feel powerless to effect meaningful change in their lives or in society as a whole, this message is more important than ever.

Another important aspect of existentialism is its emphasis on authenticity. According to this philosophy, we must be true to ourselves and our own values, rather than conforming to societal expectations or norms. This can be difficult in a world where social media encourages us to present a carefully curated version of ourselves to the world, but it’s crucial if we want to find true fulfillment and meaning.

Existentialism also encourages us to embrace uncertainty and ambiguity, rather than seeking out easy answers or absolutes. This can be challenging in a world where we’re bombarded with information and opinions from all sides, but it’s essential if we want to maintain an open mind and continue growing as individuals.

Finally, existentialism reminds us that life is inherently meaningless – not in a negative way, but simply because there’s no universal purpose or objective value system guiding us. This can be liberating once we accept it; it means that we’re free to create our own meaning and purpose in life without worrying about whether it conforms to some external standard.

In conclusion, existentialism remains highly relevant today. Its core principles – taking responsibility for our own lives, embracing authenticity, uncertainty, and meaninglessness – are more important than ever in an age where we’re constantly bombarded with information and distractions. By embracing these ideas, we can find greater fulfillment and purpose in our lives, and create a more authentic and meaningful existence for ourselves.