• Philosophy -> History of Philosophy

• 0 Comment

Is existentialism a philosophy that is more relevant today or in the past?

Laureen Oppie

Dear friend,

When it comes to the question of whether existentialism is more relevant today or in the past, it's important to consider both the historical context in which the philosophy emerged as well as the modern-day issues that continue to make it resonant with many people.

Existentialism emerged in the aftermath of World War II, a time when people were grappling with the trauma and devastation wrought by global conflict. In this context, existentialist thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus were exploring the ideas of personal responsibility, freedom, and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic and meaningless world.

In many ways, these ideas remain just as relevant today as they were in the mid-20th century. While we may not be facing the same kinds of large-scale conflicts that defined the mid-20th century, many people today continue to grapple with issues of personal responsibility, free will, and the search for meaning in an ever-changing and sometimes overwhelming world.

One area where existentialism continues to be particularly relevant is in discussions of mental health. Many people today struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns that can arise from a sense of disconnection from oneself, from others, and from the wider world. In this context, the idea of taking responsibility for one's own feelings and experiences, and actively struggling to find meaning and purpose, can be a powerful tool for personal growth and healing.

At the same time, it's also important to recognize that existentialism is not without its critics and limitations. Some would argue that the individualistic focus of existentialism can at times overshadow the importance of community and interconnectedness, while others would suggest that the emphasis on personal responsibility can sometimes be used to justify societal inequalities or systemic injustices.

In the end, whether or not existentialism is more relevant today or in the past will likely depend on who you ask and what context they are coming from. However, for many people grappling with questions of meaning, purpose, and identity in a rapidly-changing world, the ideas of existentialism continue to offer a powerful and deeply resonant framework for understanding themselves and their place in the world.