What Are the Two Basic Forms of Existentialism?

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Diego Sanchez

Existentialism is a complex philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century. It focuses on individual freedom, choice, and responsibility.

Existentialism explores the human condition and the nature of existence. There are two basic forms of existentialism: Atheistic existentialism and Christian existentialism.

Atheistic Existentialism

Atheistic existentialism is a philosophical belief that denies the existence of God or any other divine power. It emphasizes individual freedom and choice.

According to atheistic existentialists, life has no inherent meaning or purpose. Therefore, each person must create their own meaning in life.

Key Features:

  • Rejection of organized religion
  • Emphasis on individual freedom and choice
  • Belief that life has no inherent meaning or purpose
  • The need to create personal meaning through actions and choices

Important Thinkers:

Some of the most important thinkers associated with atheistic existentialism include Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche, Martin Heidegger, Albert Camus, and Simone de Beauvoir.

Christian Existentialism

Christian existentialism is a philosophical belief that combines Christian theology with existentialist philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and choice while acknowledging the existence of God. According to Christian existentialists, each person has a unique relationship with God and must make choices based on their personal relationship with Him.

Key Features:

  • Combines Christian theology with existentialist philosophy
  • The importance of individual freedom and choice within God’s plan
  • The belief that humans have a unique relationship with God
  • The need to make choices based on personal faith in God

Important Thinkers:

Some of the most important thinkers associated with Christian existentialism include Søren Kierkegaard, Gabriel Marcel, Karl Jaspers, and Paul Tillich.

Conclusion

Existentialism is a complex philosophical movement that explores the human condition and the nature of existence.

While atheistic existentialism emphasizes individual freedom and choice without acknowledging the existence of God, Christian existentialism combines Christian theology with existentialist philosophy to emphasize individual freedom and choice within God’s plan. Understanding these two basic forms of existentialism can provide insight into the ways in which individuals approach meaning and purpose in their lives.