Existentialism Is a Humanism Flashcards
What is existentialism’s main idea?
Existence comes before essence (purpose/nature)
(humans exist first, then they create their purpose and identity through choices and actions.)
What does Sartre mean by “man is condemned to be free”?
We are free to make our own choices, but with that freedom comes responsibility for everything we do.
Why does Sartre REJECT the idea of God in existentialism?
Without God, there are no pre-existing rules or values to guide us. Humans must create their own values and meaning.
What is “anguish” in existentialism?
The feeling of responsibility when we realize our choices affect not just us but all of humanity.
What does Sartre mean by “abandonment”?
- NO higher power or predetermined guide for our actions
- we are on OUR OWN to decide what’s right
What is “despair” in existentialism?
- is accepting that we can only rely on what we control
- we can’t count on others or the universe to guarantee outcomes
What does Sartre say about morality?
- There are NO universal moral rules.
- We invent our own values and act in ways that align it.
What is the role of freedom in existentialism?
- Freedom is central.
- We are free to choose, and those choices define who we are.
When we make a choice, we’re creating a model for what we believe humanity should be.
How does existentialism view actions and identity?
- You are what you do.
- There is NO identity separate from the actions you take.
What’s the connection between freedom and responsibility?
Being FREE means we are entirely RESPONSIBLE for our actions and the world we create through them.
Why is existentialism considered optimistic?
we have the power to shape our lives and the world through our choices and actions
Why does Sartre think that we don’t really know how we feel until we act? Discuss an example from Sartre’s text that illustrates this.
Emotions are FORMED by actions. We DON’T know how we truly feel UNTIL we act on it.
Example:
* Someone choosing between grieving with their mom or joining the Free French Forces.
* He says, “I can say I love a friend, but I only prove it if I act on it.”
* Love isn’t just about saying it; it’s about doing something to show it.
What Does Existentialism Reject?
- No Universal Morality: There are no fixed, eternal rules for what’s right or wrong.
- No Predetermined Purpose: Unlike objects, humans are not made with a specific purpose.
- No Excuses: You can’t blame fate, biology, or society for your actions—your choices define you.
