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Existentialism

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May 1, 2024 3 minute read

Existentialism emerged from the 19th-century European intellectual landscape as a philosophical movement that grapples with the fundamental questions of human existence. At its core, existentialism posits that each individual is responsible for defining their own path and meaning in a universe absent of inherent purpose or value. This perspective shifts the focus from external structures and dictates towards personal agency and choice, an idea that has had a profound impact on various domains of study and practice, from psychotherapy to literature.

Key Concepts of Existentialism

Existentialism is characterized by several key concepts that form its philosophical underpinnings:

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Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Existentialism.
Philosophical treatise that explores the themes of metaphysics, ontology, and the meaning of being. It challenging read, but it is an essential work for anyone who wants to understand existentialism.
Seminal work of existentialist philosophy. It explores the themes of freedom, responsibility, and the meaning of life. It challenging read, but it is essential for anyone who wants to understand existentialism.
This novel tells the story of a bubonic plague outbreak in a small town. It powerful allegory that explores the themes of existentialism and the human condition.
Philosophical treatise that explores the themes of faith, doubt, and the individual's relationship to God. It classic work of existentialist literature that is essential reading for anyone interested in the topic.
Philosophical treatise that explores the theme of anxiety. It challenging read, but it is an essential work for anyone who wants to understand existentialism.
Philosophical novel that explores the themes of self-overcoming, the will to power, and the meaning of life. It challenging read, but it is an essential work for anyone who wants to understand existentialism.
Philosophical essay that explores the themes of absurdity and meaninglessness. It powerful and moving work that can help readers to come to terms with the challenges of life.
This novel tells the story of a man who murders a stranger for no reason. It classic work of existentialist literature that explores the themes of alienation, meaninglessness, and the search for identity.
This novel tells the story of a man who experiences a profound sense of nausea and meaninglessness. It classic work of existentialist literature that explores the themes of alienation, despair, and the search for meaning.
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