The existential perspective of the human person is a philosophical framework that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and the subjective experience of meaning and authenticity.
It emerged in the 20th century as a response to the existential crisis of the modern world, grappling with questions of human purpose, identity, and the nature of existence.
Existentialism, a key movement within the existential perspective, explores the unique conditions and challenges faced by individuals in navigating their lives. It rejects deterministic explanations of human behavior and instead focuses on the individual’s responsibility for creating meaning and defining their own identity.
Existential thinkers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, and Martin Heidegger, emphasize the following aspects of the human person:
- Freedom and Authenticity: Existentialism asserts that human beings possess radical freedom to make choices and shape their lives. This freedom entails responsibility and the requirement to take ownership of one’s actions. Authenticity, therefore, becomes a crucial aspect, as individuals are encouraged to live in accordance with their true values, beliefs, and desires.
- Existential Anxiety and Absurdity: Existentialism acknowledges the inherent anxiety and tension that arise from the human condition. The recognition of one’s mortality, the absurdity of existence, and the ultimate uncertainty of meaning can lead to existential angst. However, existentialists argue that facing and embracing this anxiety is a necessary step towards living an authentic and meaningful life.
- Subjectivity and Individual Experience: Existentialism values subjective experience as the primary source of understanding oneself and the world. It emphasizes the importance of personal reflection, self-examination, and introspection in discovering one’s own values, purpose, and identity. Each individual’s unique perspective is seen as essential in shaping their existence.
- Meaning and Choice: Existentialism rejects the notion of inherent or predetermined meaning in life. Instead, it suggests that individuals must actively create and define meaning through their choices and actions. This process of meaning-making involves engaging in relationships, pursuing personal goals, and confronting the existential dilemmas of life.
The existential perspective of the human person acknowledges the complexities, uncertainties, and inherent tensions of human existence. It invites individuals to confront the fundamental questions of existence, embrace their freedom, and take responsibility for shaping their lives. While existentialism does not provide definitive answers, it encourages individuals to live authentically, engage in self-reflection, and find meaning in the face of life’s challenges.