Kierkegaard placed emphasis on personal choice and subjective experience from "summary" of Humanly Possible by Sarah Bakewell
Kierkegaard believed that the most important decisions we make are those that shape our own lives, rather than conforming to external expectations. He emphasized the need for authenticity and individuality in our choices, as well as the importance of subjective experience in guiding us towards our true selves. For Kierkegaard, personal choice was a fundamental aspect of human existence, one that required us to take responsibility for our actions and face the consequences of our decisions. Rather than following societal norms or adhering to religious dogma, Kierkegaard encouraged individuals to question their beliefs and values, and to choose for themselves what they believed to be true and meaningful. He argued that true freedom could only be found in the act of choosing, even if that choice led to uncertainty or anxiety. This emphasis on personal choice also extended to the realm of ethics, where Kierkegaard believed that individuals must take responsibility for their actions and decisions, rather than simply following rules or principles. Kierkegaard's focus on subjective experience was a central theme in his philosophy, as he believed that truth and meaning could only be found through personal reflection and introspection. He argued that the individual must navigate their own path towards self-discovery, rather than relying on external authorities or institutions to provide answers. This emphasis on subjective experience also highlighted the importance of emotions and intuition in guiding our decisions, as Kierkegaard believed that reason alone could not provide us with a sense of purpose or direction in life. By emphasizing personal choice and subjective experience, Kierkegaard challenged the prevailing attitudes of his time, which often valued conformity and tradition over individual autonomy and authenticity. He believed that each person had the capacity to create their own meaning and purpose in life, through the choices they made and the experiences they underwent. In this way, Kierkegaard's philosophy remains relevant today, as it encourages us to reflect on our own values and beliefs, and to take ownership of our lives in the pursuit of authenticity and self-discovery.
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