existentialism Flashcards
What is existentialism?
A philosophical movement focusing on individual existence, freedom, and choice.
True or False: Existentialism posits that existence precedes essence.
True
Who is considered the father of existentialism?
Søren Kierkegaard
Fill in the blank: Existentialism emphasizes the importance of _______.
individual experience
What does the term ‘absurd’ refer to in existentialist philosophy?
The conflict between human beings’ desire to find inherent meaning in life and the silent, indifferent universe.
Which existentialist philosopher wrote ‘Being and Nothingness’?
Jean-Paul Sartre
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a key theme of existentialism? A) Freedom B) Isolation C) Determinism D) Authenticity
C) Determinism
True or False: Existentialism rejects the idea of objective morality.
True
What is the concept of ‘bad faith’ in existentialism?
The denial of one’s freedom and responsibility by blaming external factors.
Fill in the blank: _______ is often associated with existential angst.
Anxiety
Who wrote ‘The Myth of Sisyphus’?
Albert Camus
Multiple Choice: Which of the following existentialist philosophers is known for his work on existential ethics? A) Friedrich Nietzsche B) Martin Heidegger C) Simone de Beauvoir D) Karl Jaspers
C) Simone de Beauvoir
What is the significance of ‘the absurd’ in Camus’ philosophy?
It highlights the conflict between the human search for meaning and the meaningless universe.
True or False: Existentialism is primarily concerned with societal norms and collective values.
False
What does ‘existential dread’ refer to?
A feeling of unease and anxiety about one’s existence and freedom.
Fill in the blank: Existentialism often explores the theme of _______ in personal relationships.
alienation
Who is known for the phrase ‘I think, therefore I am’?
René Descartes
Multiple Choice: Which work is associated with Martin Heidegger? A) The Stranger B) Being and Time C) No Exit D) The Ethics of Ambiguity
B) Being and Time
What is ‘existential freedom’?
The idea that individuals are free to make choices and define their own existence.
True or False: Existentialism often endorses nihilism.
False
Fill in the blank: Existentialists argue that humans must create their own _______.
meaning
Who wrote ‘Existentialism is a Humanism’?
Jean-Paul Sartre
What is the role of ‘authenticity’ in existentialist thought?
Living in accordance with one’s true self and values, rather than conforming to societal expectations.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following concepts is central to Nietzsche’s philosophy? A) The Will to Power B) The Social Contract C) The Tabula Rasa D) The Categorical Imperative
A) The Will to Power
True or False: Existentialism is a unified philosophy with a single doctrine.
False
What does existentialism say about death?
It views death as a fundamental aspect of existence that gives life urgency and meaning.
Fill in the blank: _______ is a common theme in existential literature.
Isolation
Who is known for the concept of ‘the Other’?
Simone de Beauvoir