Introduction

Existentialism, much like its philosophical cousin nihilism, traces its roots back to Russia with the works of Fyodor Dostoevsky. However, it would be a disservice to reduce the essence of existentialism to a mere canon. At its core, existentialism operates as a seed, a fundamental idea that can either grow close to its original form or diverge significantly.

Diverse Expressions of Existentialism

Many philosophical figures have contributed to the existentialist movement, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. Jean-Paul Sartre explored a political form of existentialism, a concept also found in Dostoevsky's works. However, it is the Danish philosopher S?ren Kierkegaard who delves into the angsty and almost psychological condition, touching upon the essence of existentialism in a way that resonates deeply. On the other hand, Albert Camus provides a more positivistic interpretation of existentialism, exemplified in works such as "The Stranger," where the absurdity of existence is highlighted.

Existentialism vs. the Human Condition

One can interpret existentialism through the lens of the human condition, but this interpretation is notoriously broad. In fact, it might be argued that existentialism is one of the most popular themes in literature, spanning fiction, biography, and nonfiction genres. It explores concepts such as death, the void, absurdity, nothingness, godlessness, others, and creation. This vast exploration makes it a metaphysical inquiry, examining the very core of being.

Nihilism, Absurdity, and Canon

The terms nihilism and absurdity have distinct, yet overlapping, definitions in the canon of existential philosophy.

Nihilism is characterized by negation and denial. It questions the existence of inherent meaning or value in life, suggesting that life might be meaningless or devoid of purpose. Not all nihilistic views are purely negative; some argue that there is a truth and meaning, but that people's actions or perception of the world has led to absurdity.

Absurdity, on the other hand, refers to the meaninglessness of the world. Camus's work highlights the absurdity of the human condition, emphasizing that despite the search for meaning, life often presents itself as a tragic comedy of errors. This absurdity is a criticism of the rationality of human existence, suggesting that the world is inherently incongruous with the human need for meaning.

The Illness of Existentialism

While existentialism offers profound insights into the human experience, it is not without its pitfalls. The philosophical movement can lead to existential dread, a deep anxiety about the meaninglessness of life. This idea that existence might lack inherent purpose can be psychologically and emotionally draining. In this sense, existentialism can be an illness in thought, leading to a sense of despair or alienation.

Conclusion

Existentialism is not about popularity. Rather, it is about the profound and often daunting exploration of human existence. By embracing the concepts of death, the void, absurdity, and meaninglessness, existentialism challenges us to create our own purpose and meaning in life, often without the guidance of gods, governments, or teachers. As an existentialist, I believe in the power of personal responsibility and individual choice. Every decision we make, every moment we live, is a reflection of our own internal dialogue and reality.

But what about those who are more naive, more willing to take the world for granted and live without questioning? They may be at the opposite end of the spectrum. Existentialism demands that we look beyond surface-level realities and delve into the deeper, more complex aspects of existence. It is a journey of self-discovery, a path that can be both liberating and challenging.