Glossary
Anxiety
A state of unease, apprehension, or worry, often stemming from a perceived threat or uncertainty. In the post-war era, it reflected a widespread crisis of meaning and trust in traditional systems.
Example:
The pervasive anxiety after World War I led many Europeans to question the very foundations of their society and seek new philosophical frameworks.
Existentialism
A philosophical movement emphasizing individual freedom, choice, and responsibility in a world without inherent meaning. It posits that individuals must create their own purpose and values.
Example:
Jean-Paul Sartre's philosophy is a prime example of Existentialism, arguing that humans are 'condemned to be free' and must forge their own essence through their choices.
Friedrich Nietzsche
A German philosopher who challenged traditional morality and advocated for individuals to create their own values and overcome conventional norms. He famously declared 'God is dead'.
Example:
Friedrich Nietzsche's concept of the 'will to power' influenced later existentialist thinkers by emphasizing the individual's drive to define their own existence.
Human Condition
Refers to the fundamental characteristics, events, and limitations that define human existence, such as suffering, mortality, and the search for meaning.
Example:
Albert Camus's exploration of the absurd in 'The Myth of Sisyphus' directly addresses the inherent struggles and isolation of the human condition.