philo mst Flashcards
philosophical inquiry into human existence,
purpose, and meaning
Existentialism
includes a
deity in discussions of human
existence and purpose.
Divine Purpose
follows the maxim “essence
precedes existence,” suggesting a
predetermined purpose for
humans.
Predetermined Essence
A god or deity is believed to
control the universe and create
its purpose.
Higher Being
focuses
on man’s actions alone for
meaning, without reference to a
deity.
Secular Approach
emphasizes human
individuality and free actions
that shape identity and
responsibilities.
Individuality
the most
renowned Existential philosopher
in this branch.
Jean-Paul Sartre
Sartre believed that one’s
existence comes before their
meaning or purpose.
Existence Precedes
Essence
Humans are thrown into the
world without a prior
purpose or essence.
No Predetermined
Purpose
Despite circumstances of
birth, individuals are free to
make their own choices.
Freedom of Choice
We don’t choose our initial circumstances of birth.
Thrown into Existence
We have the freedom to make choices from our
given starting point.
Freedom to Choose
Through our choices and actions, we create our
own essence and purpose.
Creating Essence
one of the first existential
philosophers.
Danish thinker
Man follows desires and
finds meaning in activities
that satisfy pleasures.
Pleasure-Driven
Desires are inconsistent
and fleeting, providing no
lasting meaning.
Temporary Satisfaction
Similar to children’s temporary fondness for toys,
discarding one for another.
Childlike Perspective
Man considers the impact of
actions on society, not just
self.
Maturity
Society and institutions
teach ethical conduct.
Moral Behavior
The meaning is derived from harmonious
relationships and societal contributions
Fulfilling Roles
Personal relationship with
God characterized by faith
and obedience.
Faith
Pursuit of union with God
leads to ultimate meaning.
union
Abraham’s willingness to
sacrifice his son exemplifies
ultimate faith.
sacrifice
Life has no ultimate purpose or afterlife.
No Inherent Meaning
Denies the idea of a god providing
purpose to life
Rejection of Higher Being
Individuals can create personal meaning
despite lack of objective purpose.
Subjective Meaning
Tolstoy emphasized the
importance of connecting with
the natural world.
Peaceful Union with
Nature
Doing good for one’s neighbors
contributes to a meaningful
life.
Serving Others
Life with loved ones is central
to happiness and meaning.
Love and
Relationships
Death is like a deep sleep without waking.
Cessation of
Consciousness
Death returns us to where we were before birth.
Return to Pre-Birth State
Everyday existence is a path towards dying
Life’s Purpose
Life is a mission given by God to
fulfill on Earth
God’s Purpose
Death leads to union with God and
eternal life in heaven.
Afterlife
Christian teachings express joy in
death as a reunion with God.
Joy in Death
Death is a transition of the soul from this world to the next.
Transition
An angel comes to collect the soul of the dying person.
Angel of Death
Muslims view death as an unhappy and painful occurrence.
Painful Event
Death is seen as “the great departure,”
a highly spiritual phenomenon.
Mahaprasthaana
The soul or spirit is permanent, while
the physical body is impermanent.
Atman
The atman is reborn into a different
body after death.
Samsara
Suffering is caused by earthly desires and materialism.
Dukkha
The ultimate goal is to reach a state free from pain and suffering.
Nirvana
Death as a reunion with God
in eternal life.
Christianity
Death as a transition to the
next world.
Islam
Death as part of the cycle of
reincarnation.
Hinduism
Death as a step towards
ending suffering and reaching
nirvana.
Buddhism
Following traditions without
understanding their purpose.
Blind Obedience
Performing actions simply
because they are customary
or expected.
Societal Expectations
Existing without knowing the reason for one’s existence.
Lack of Understanding
French Writer
Albert Camus
Camus used the myth of Sisyphus
to illustrate human struggle.
Sisyphus
People find meaning in everyday
struggles, despite hardships.
Endurance
Embracing one’s fate with
perseverance, like Sisyphus
pushing his boulder.
Acceptance
We wake up, go to school or work, and
return home.
Daily Routine
The cycle repeats daily, like Sisyphus
rolling his rock.
Repetition
We must contemplate the meaning we
derive from our struggles.
Reflection
Some seek a flourishing life
through material success.
Wealth
Others chase dreams and
do what they love.
Passion
They believe life is short and should be enjoyed fully.
Time
Some individuals strive for success in their careers.
Achievement
They aim to build something that outlasts their lives
Legacy
Success often comes from unwavering commitment to a purpose.
Dedication
Our purpose may change over time as
we grow and experience life.
Evolving Purpose
Contemplation helps us live more
meaningfully and discover our purpose
Self-Reflection
Only we can answer the questions of our
own existence.
Individual Journey
