Existentialist philosophy, a philosophy that arose in the 19th and 20th centuries, highlights individual freedom, choice, and personal experience. At the heart of this ideology is the belief that existence precedes essence, meaning that humans determine their own significance and meaning through their deeds. Existentialist thinkers like Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche argue that life lacks inherent meaning, and it is up to each person to create their own beliefs in a uncaring world.
This school of thought questions traditional notions of determinism and the notion that life's purpose is predetermined. Instead, existentialism suggests that individuals must face the inherent meaninglessness of life and welcome their liberty to make choices and take action. This often leads to an existential conflict, where people wrestle with emotions of anxiety and disorientation as they encounter the emptiness of inherent meaning. However, it is through this conflict that one can attain authentic existence by embracing accountability for one's choices and creating personal importance.
Existentialism also delves into ideas of isolation, despair, and the state of being human. In a society where traditional principles and values are often questioned, existentialist thought provides a basis for understanding the nuances of human life. By acknowledging the void of universal truths, existentialist philosophy encourages business philosophy individuals to thrive passionately and truly, despite the doubts and challenges of life. It is a appeal to accept the autonomy and accountability that come with being human, and to seek meaning in an otherwise unfeeling universe.