Existentialism is a philosophical movement that originated in the 20th century, and it has since gained popularity across the world. It is an approach to understanding human existence that emphasizes individual freedom and choice, as well as the inherent meaninglessness of life. If you are interested in learning more about this fascinating philosophy, there are many great books and other resources available that can help you get started.
Books on Existentialism
One of the best ways to learn about existentialism is to read books on the subject. There are many great works of literature that explore the themes and ideas associated with this philosophy. Here are a few classic titles to consider:
“Being and Nothingness” by Jean-Paul Sartre
This seminal work by French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre is often considered one of the most important texts in existentialist philosophy. In it, Sartre explores themes such as freedom, consciousness, and identity.
“The Stranger” by Albert Camus
This novel by French author Albert Camus tells the story of a man who commits a senseless murder and must grapple with his own feelings of detachment from society. The book explores themes such as alienation and absurdity.
“Thus Spoke Zarathustra” by Friedrich Nietzsche
This influential work by German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche presents a fictional character named Zarathustra who delivers speeches on various philosophical topics such as morality, religion, and the human condition.
Online Resources
If you’re not ready to commit to a full-length book just yet, there are many great online resources available that can help you learn more about existentialism. Here are a few sites to check out:
Existential Comics (existentialcomics.com)
This webcomic series uses humor to explore existentialist themes and ideas. It’s a fun and accessible way to learn about the philosophy.
The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (plato.stanford.edu/entries/existentialism)
This online encyclopedia is a great resource for exploring a wide range of philosophical topics, including existentialism. The articles are written by experts in the field and are often quite detailed and comprehensive.
Podcasts
If you prefer to learn on the go, podcasts can be a great way to explore existentialist philosophy. Here are a few to consider:
The Partially Examined Life (partiallyexaminedlife.com)
This podcast features a group of philosophers who discuss various philosophical topics, including existentialism. The discussions are lively and engaging, making it a great listen for anyone interested in philosophy.
Philosophy Bites (philosophybites.com)
This podcast features interviews with leading philosophers on various topics, including existentialism. The episodes are relatively short (usually around 20 minutes) but provide a good introduction to the subject matter.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer books, online resources, or podcasts, there are many great ways to learn about existentialism. By exploring these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating philosophy and how it has influenced modern thought. So why not start reading today?