Existentialism Vs Absurdism: Understanding the Fundamental Differences
Existentialism and Absurdism are two of the most controversial philosophical theories of the 20th century. Both these philosophical concepts are concerned with the meaning of life and the role of human existence. However, they have different ways of understanding what that means. While existentialism advocates the active search for meaning and purpose, Absurdism upholds the paradoxical notion of the lack of purpose as a fundamental truth of life. This article explores the primary differences between existentialism and Absurdism and their influence on modern thought.
Existentialism: A Quest for Meaning and Purpose
Existentialism is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility to create his or her own meaning and purpose in life. This theory asserts that we are free to choose our actions and create our own destiny without being bound by social or religious constraints.
Existentialists believe that each person is unique and that the full potential of human existence lies in realizing our individuality. The central question of existentialism is: What is the meaning of life? Though there is no single answer to this question, existentialists believe that the answer lies within each person’s unique interpretation of their existence.
Existentialism emerged in the early 20th century through the works of Jean-Paul Sartre, Martin Heidegger, and Friedrich Nietzsche, among others. The philosophy gained popularity during the post-World War II period, when people began to question the meaning and purpose of their existence after experiencing the horrors of war.
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Absurdism: Embracing the Absence of Meaning
Unlike existentialism, Absurdism is a philosophical concept that upholds the belief that life has no inherent meaning, and that the efforts to find meaning are often futile. Absurdism, however, does not necessarily subscribe to nihilism, which is the belief in the ultimate meaninglessness of existence. Instead, it upholds a distinctive ironic stance that ridicules human efforts to find meaning in the face of the absurdity and chaos that surround us.
According to Absurdism, the human search for meaning is absurd because life is essentially meaningless. The Absurdists argue that humans are essentially born into a hostile, irrational, and meaningless universe, and that the recognition of this unfortunate truth is essential before one can live an authentic life. Embracing Absurdism means accepting the absurdity of life and confronting it courageously and honestly.
The philosophical concept of Absurdism originated from the works of Albert Camus, who wrote extensively on the topic in his book “The Myth of Sisyphus.” Other prominent Absurdists include Samuel Beckett and Franz Kafka.
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Primary Differences
Existentialism and Absurdism have some similarities in the sense that they both deal with the question of the meaning of life. However, there are fundamental differences between these two philosophical concepts.
The main difference between these two philosophies is their attitude towards the concept of meaning. Whereas Existentialism emphasizes the search for meaning and purpose, Absurdism asserts that life has no inherent meaning, and that the search for meaning is futile. For Existentialists, the individual’s search for meaning is a crucial quest that defines the purpose of existence. Absurdists, on the other hand, believe that life is meaningless, and that the individual should accept this truth and embrace it courageously.
Another difference is their view of human existence. Existentialists believe that individuals have a unique and existential identity that distinguishes them from other beings, whereas Absurdists maintain that we are all insignificant in a vast universe of chaos and ambiguity.
Finally, Existentialism and Absurdism also differ in their view of death. Existentialists believe that individuals must live a life that is authentic and purposeful, and that death is a natural part of this process. For the Absurdists, death is an unavoidable event that reinforces the meaninglessness of life.
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Conclusion
In summary, Existentialism and Absurdism are two different philosophical concepts that tackle the fundamental questions concerning the meaning and purpose of life. While Existentialism advocates the search for meaning and purpose, Absurdism upholds the belief that life has no inherent meaning, and that the search for meaning is futile. Both philosophical concepts have had a profound impact on modern thought, influencing literature, art, and culture in general. Understanding the differences between these two philosophical concepts is essential in comprehending contemporary discourse, especially concerning human life and the human condition.
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