What Is the Problem With Existentialism?

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Jane Flores

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that stresses individual freedom and choice. It emphasizes the importance of personal experience and self-awareness in shaping one’s own life. Despite its popularity, there are some criticisms of existentialism that suggest it has some fundamental problems.

The problem of subjectivity

One of the main criticisms of existentialism is that it can be overly subjective. It is often difficult for people to agree on what constitutes personal experience and self-awareness. For example, two people could have very different experiences in a similar situation, which could lead them to draw different conclusions about life.

The problem with the concept of authenticity

Another criticism of existentialism is its emphasis on authenticity. The idea is that individuals should strive to be authentic in their choices and actions, but this can be problematic when authenticity conflicts with other values such as morality or social norms. For example, if someone believes it is authentic for them to lie or cheat, this may conflict with their moral beliefs and create cognitive dissonance.

The problem with nihilism

Existentialism also has been criticized for its potential to lead individuals toward nihilism. Nihilism is the belief that life has no inherent meaning or purpose which can lead people to feel hopeless or apathetic about their lives. While some proponents argue that existentialism offers an alternative to nihilism by encouraging individuals to create meaning through their own experiences, others contend that it can still lead to feelings of despair.

The problem with solipsism

Solipsism is another criticism often leveled against existentialist thought. Solipsism is the belief that only one’s own mind exists and everything else is an illusion created by the mind. This idea conflicts with the notion of interpersonal relationships and social responsibility.

  • Conclusion:

While there are valid criticisms against existentialist philosophy, it remains a popular and influential movement in modern thought. Its emphasis on personal experience and individual freedom continues to inspire people to think critically about their lives and make choices that align with their values. However, it is important to be aware of the potential pitfalls of existentialist thought and to approach it with a critical eye.