Existentialism, Research Paper Example

The first existentialist is known to be Soren Kierkegaard. Søren Kierkegaard was a prolific writer who spanned a number of topics, such as philosophy, theology, and literature, among others. Kierkegaard’s work primarily analyzed the individual’s role in society within Christendom, spanning many psychological topics in order to maintain the authentic and truth that is inherent within Christianity. Kierkegaard is notably regarded as “the father of existentialism” in his analysis of the individual, where he founded this approach as well as contributing to a number of philosophical, historical, and political themes of his time (Crowell 2010). Much of his work was not valued in his time period as a result of his work being in Danish; however, his status has been among others high in fields of philosophy and theology.

Existentialism thus found a beginning with the works of Kierkegaard. The notion of “authenticity,” which was rooted in the original works of Kierkegaard, was later adapated by existentialists such as Sartre. Along with Friedrich Nietzsche, Kierkegaard laid the foundation of existentialism with topics such as these. Later the movement would become quite popular, notably after World War II. Much of this was due to the work of Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. Heidegger’s Being and Time saw great popularity as well during these years.

A number of other concepts came to light with the presence of existentialism. Following Kierkegaard’s lead on a number of issues, which were grounded in the basis of human existence and consciousness, a number of concepts came to light, such as the absurd, facticity, authenticity, angst, and despair. Whether self-evident or not, these concepts surround the existential basis of life, in determining meaning and living in a full manner. Along with despair and angst, a concept such as absurdity, in which no meaning is found beyond what one gives it, can ultimately lead to negative meaning such as suicide (Keen 1973). This is what existentialism attempts to view life, in the sense of meaning and reality for the individual.

The influence of existentialism has been felt across culture and media, as well as other fields within philosophy and the humanities and sciences. With the perspective of existentialism, it is no surprise that many artists, authors, and filmmakers can be understood along the lines of existentialism of a literary type. Even modern films can expose existentialist themes, such as the popular Fight Club that explores such undertones and features.

Within the humanities and sciences, existentialism has become quite a notable force. Theological existentialism has been quite influential, where Kierkegaard’s work and basis has become a field of its own, and additionally has had a great impact on Christian theology (such as Barth and other popular thinkers). Existential psychology and psychoanalysis has become an important field in the science of psychology. Dealing with common themes in existentialism such as anxiety, it is apparent as to the common ground that existentialism and psychology share together.

Works Cited

“Søren Kierkegaard.” Steven Crowell. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2010. Web. 26 April. 2012.

“Suicide and Self-Deception.” Ernest Keen. The Psychoanalytic Review, 1973. Web. 26 April. 2012.