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Existentialists grapple with the meaning of life in a godless universe from "summary" of Humanly Possible by Sarah Bakewell

Existentialists are concerned with the fundamental question of what gives life meaning when there is no higher power or external source of meaning to rely on. In a universe that appears indifferent to human existence, they seek to find a way to live authentically and ethically without the comfort of religious beliefs or moral absolutes. The philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre famously declared that "existence precedes essence," meaning that individuals are not born with a predetermined purpose or meaning in life. Instead, they must create their own meaning through their choices and actions. This idea can be liberating, as it frees individuals from the constraints of external expectations and allows them to take responsibility for shaping their own lives. Albert Camus, another key figure in existentialist thought, explored the concept of the "absurd" – the tension between the human desire for meaning and the indifference of the universe. He argued that the search for ultimate meaning is ultimately futile, but that it is still possible to find meaning in the here and now through acts of rebellion against the absurdity of existence. Existentialists also grapple with the inevitability of death and the limits of human knowledge. In the face of mortality and uncertainty, they advocate for living fully in the present moment and embracing the uncertainties of life rather than seeking false certainties or distractions.
  1. Existentialism is a philosophy that challenges individuals to confront the realities of existence without the comfort of religious belief or external sources of meaning. It encourages a radical form of self-examination and personal responsibility, urging individuals to create their own meaning in a seemingly meaningless universe.
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Humanly Possible

Sarah Bakewell

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