EXISTENTIALISM

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual

freedom and choice, and the inherent meaninglessness of life. It emerged in the
19th and 20th centuries, primarily in Europe. It is the view that humans define their
own meaning in life, and try to make rational decisions despite existing in an
irrational universe.
It focuses on the question of human existence and the feeling that there is no
purpose or explanation to the core of existence.
Key Influences
1. *Søren Kierkegaard*: Danish philosopher and theologian, considered the father
of existentialism.
2. *Friedrich Nietzsche*: German philosopher, known for his critiques of
traditional morality and his concept of the "Übermensch" (Superman).
3. *Jean-Paul Sartre*: French philosopher, playwright, and novelist, who
popularized existentialism with his concept of "existence precedes essence."

Core Principles
1. *Existence precedes essence*: Individuals exist first, and then create their own
essence through their choices and actions.
2. *Freedom and responsibility*: Individuals have the freedom to choose their
actions, and with that comes responsibility for those choices.
3. *Meaninglessness of life*: Life has no inherent meaning, and individuals must
create their own meaning through their experiences and choices.

Impact
1. *Philosophy and literature*: Existentialism influenced various philosophical and
literary movements, including phenomenology, hermeneutics, and absurdism.
2. *Psychology and therapy*: Existentialism's emphasis on individual freedom and
responsibility influenced the development of humanistic psychology and
existential psychotherapy.
3. *Culture and society*: Existentialism's ideas about individual freedom and the
meaninglessness of life have had a significant impact on modern culture and
society.
SOME NOTABLE PROPINENTS OF EXISTENTIALISM
1. *Søren Kierkegaard*: Danish philosopher and theologian, considered the father
of existentialism.
2. *Friedrich Nietzsche*: German philosopher, known for his critiques of
traditional morality and his concept of the "Übermensch" (Superman).
3. *Jean-Paul Sartre*: French philosopher, playwright, and novelist, who
popularized existentialism with his concept of "existence precedes essence."
4. *Martin Heidegger*: German philosopher, known for his concept of "Being-in-
the-world" and his influence on existential thought.
5. *Albert Camus*: French philosopher, novelist, and playwright, known for his
concept of the "absurd" and his advocacy for individual freedom and moral
responsibility.

Other Notable Existentialists

1. *Gabriel Marcel*: French philosopher and playwright, known for his concept of
"existentialism" and his influence on Christian existentialism.
2. *Emmanuel Levinas*: French philosopher, known for his concept of "alterity"
and his influence on existential thought.
3. *Simone de Beauvoir*: French philosopher and feminist, known for her concept
of "existentialism" and her influence on feminist thought.
These individuals, among others, have contributed to the development and
popularization of existentialist thought.
The notable proponents of existentialism mentioned earlier hold various beliefs
that shape their philosophical views. Their key beliefs are:
Søren Kierkegaard
1. *Individualism*: Emphasized the importance of individual experience and
subjective reality.
2. *Existentialism*: Believed that individuals must take responsibility for their
own existence and create their own meaning in life.
3. *Leap of Faith*: Advocated for a leap of faith, where individuals must make a
commitment to their beliefs and values despite uncertainty.
Friedrich Nietzsche
1. *Will to Power*: Believed that life is driven by the will to power, and
individuals must strive to exert their strength and creativity.
2. *Perspectivism*: Argued that all knowledge and truth is relative, and
perspectives are subjective.
3. *Übermensch*: Introduced the concept of the Übermensch (Superman), who
embodies exceptional strength, creativity, and individuality.
Jean-Paul Sartre
1. *Existence Precedes Essence*: Believed that human existence comes before any
inherent essence or nature.
2. *Freedom and Responsibility*: Emphasized individual freedom and
responsibility, arguing that humans must choose their own path in life.
3. *Bad Faith*: Critiqued the concept of bad faith, where individuals deny or
escape their own freedom and responsibility.
Martin Heidegger
1. *Being-in-the-World*: Introduced the concept of Being-in-the-world,
emphasizing the fundamental relationship between humans and their environment.
2. *Existentialism*: Believed that human existence is characterized by its finite
and temporal nature.
3. *Authenticity*: Emphasized the importance of authenticity, where individuals
must take responsibility for their own existence and choices.
Albert Camus
1. *The Absurd*: Introduced the concept of the absurd, highlighting the conflict
between humanity's desire for meaning and the apparent meaninglessness of the
universe.
2. *Individual Freedom*: Believed in individual freedom and moral responsibility,
arguing that humans must create their own values and meaning in life.
3. *Revolt*: Advocated for revolt against the absurd, encouraging individuals to
live in the present and take action despite the uncertainty of the future.
Gabriel Marcel
1. *Existentialism*: Believed that human existence is characterized by its mystery
and ambiguity.
2. *Mystery*: Emphasized the importance of mystery, arguing that humans must
acknowledge and respect the unknown.
3. *Hope*: Believed in the importance of hope, arguing that humans must maintain
a sense of optimism and possibility despite the challenges of life.
Emmanuel Levinas
1. *Alterity*: Introduced the concept of alterity, emphasizing the fundamental
relationship between humans and the Other.
2. *Ethics*: Believed that ethics is fundamental to human existence, arguing that
humans must take responsibility for their actions and respect the Other.
3. *Infinity*: Emphasized the importance of infinity, arguing that humans must
acknowledge and respect the limits of their knowledge and understanding.
Simone de Beauvoir
1. *Existentialism*: Believed that human existence is characterized by its freedom
and responsibility.
2. *Feminism*: Argued that women are oppressed and must take responsibility for
their own freedom and empowerment.
3. *Ethics*: Emphasized the importance of ethics, arguing that humans must take
responsibility for their actions and respect the Other.
These individuals' beliefs have shaped their philosophical views and contributions
to existentialist thought.

To help students understand existentialism, various subjects can be taught,

including:
Philosophy
1. *Introduction to Existentialism*: Overview of the key concepts, principles, and
philosophers of existentialism.
2. *Ethics*: Exploration of moral principles and values in the context of
existentialism.
3. *Metaphysics*: Examination of the nature of reality, existence, and being in
existentialist thought.
Literature
1. *Existentialist Literature*: Analysis of literary works that reflect existentialist
themes, such as Albert Camus'"The Stranger" or Jean-Paul Sartre's "No Exit."
2. *Philosophical Fiction*: Exploration of novels and short stories that explore
existentialist ideas, such as Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment" or
Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot."
Psychology
1. *Humanistic Psychology*: Introduction to humanistic psychology, which
emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and responsibility.
2. *Existential Psychology*: Exploration of existential psychology, which focuses
on the human condition, meaning, and purpose.
Social Sciences
1. *Sociology*: Examination of social structures, institutions, and relationships in
the context of existentialism.
2. *Anthropology*: Exploration of human culture, identity, and existence in the
context of existentialist thought.
Arts and Humanities
1. *Art and Existentialism*: Analysis of art movements and styles that reflect
existentialist themes, such as abstract expressionism or surrealism.
2. *Music and Existentialism*: Exploration of music genres and styles that reflect
existentialist ideas, such as jazz or punk rock.
Interdisciplinary Approaches
1. *Interdisciplinary Studies*: Integration of multiple subjects, such as philosophy,
literature, psychology, and sociology, to explore existentialist ideas.
2. *Case Studies*: Examination of real-life cases or scenarios that illustrate
existentialist concepts and principles.
By teaching these subjects, educators can help students develop a deeper
understanding of existentialism and its relevance to human existence.

Existentialism shares similarities and differences with other schools of

thought:
Similarities with Other Schools of Thought
1. *Humanism*: Existentialism shares similarities with humanism, emphasizing
individual freedom, choice, and responsibility.
2. *Phenomenology*: Existentialism is closely related to phenomenology, focusing
on subjective experience and the structure of consciousness.
3. *Absurdism*: Existentialism is often associated with absurdism, which
highlights the absurdity and meaninglessness of human existence.
Differences from Other Schools of Thought
1. *Essentialism*: Existentialism rejects essentialism, which posits that human
beings have an inherent essence or nature.
2. *Determinism*: Existentialism opposes determinism, which argues that human
behavior is determined by external factors, such as environment or genetics.
3. *Rationalism*: Existentialism differs from rationalism, which emphasizes the
power of reason and intellect to understand the world.
4. *Empiricism*: Existentialism diverges from empiricism, which relies on sensory
experience and observation to understand the world.
5. *Idealism*: Existentialism contrasts with idealism, which posits that reality is
fundamentally mental or spiritual.
Comparison with Other Philosophical Movements
1. *Postmodernism*: Existentialism shares similarities with postmodernism, which
challenges traditional notions of truth, reality, and authority.
2. *Nihilism*: Existentialism is often associated with nihilism, which rejects
traditional values and meaning.
3. *Stoicism*: Existentialism differs from stoicism, which emphasizes reason, self-
control, and indifference to external events.
Existentialism, as a philosophical movement, has both strengths and
weaknesses. Here's a brief overview:
Strengths
1. *Emphasis on Individual Freedom*: Existentialism emphasizes individual
freedom and choice, which can be empowering and liberating.
2. *Focus on Subjective Experience*: Existentialism prioritizes subjective
experience and individual perspective, which can lead to a deeper understanding of
human existence.
3. *Rejection of Determinism*: Existentialism rejects determinism, which can be
seen as a strength, as it allows individuals to take responsibility for their choices
and actions.
4. *Encouragement of Authenticity*: Existentialism encourages individuals to be
authentic and true to themselves, which can lead to a more genuine and meaningful
life.
5. *Critique of Traditional Values*: Existentialism critiques traditional values and
norms, which can lead to a more nuanced understanding of morality and ethics.
Weaknesses
1. *Pessimism and Nihilism*: Existentialism's emphasis on the absurdity and
meaninglessness of life can lead to pessimism and nihilism.
2. *Lack of Clear Moral Framework*: Existentialism's rejection of traditional
moral frameworks can make it difficult to establish clear moral guidelines.
3. *Overemphasis on Individualism*: Existentialism's focus on individual freedom
and choice can lead to an overemphasis on individualism, neglecting the
importance of community and social responsibility.
4. *Difficulty in Establishing Objective Truth*: Existentialism's rejection of
objective truth can make it challenging to establish a shared understanding of
reality.
5. *Potential for Alienation*: Existentialism's emphasis on individual existence
and freedom can lead to feelings of alienation and disconnection from others.
Criticisms
1. *Accusations of Solipsism*: Some critics argue that existentialism's focus on
individual experience and subjective reality can lead to solipsism, where the
individual's experience is the only reality.
2. *Lack of Clear Definition*: Some critics argue that existentialism is a vague and
ill-defined concept, making it difficult to understand and apply.
3. *Overemphasis on Human Existence*: Some critics argue that existentialism's
focus on human existence neglects the importance of other aspects of reality, such
as the natural world or the universe as a whole.
Responses to Criticisms
1. *Existentialism is Not Solipsism*: Existentialists argue that their philosophy is
not solipsistic, as it acknowledges the existence of others and the importance of
intersubjective experience.
2. *Existentialism is a Complex and Multifaceted Philosophy*: Existentialists
argue that their philosophy is complex and multifaceted, encompassing a wide
range of ideas and perspectives.
3. *Existentialism is Not Limited to Human Existence*: Existentialists argue that
their philosophy is not limited to human existence, but rather encompasses a
broader understanding of reality and existence.
Existentialism's relevance to Nigerian education policies and practices lies in its
emphasis on individual freedom, choice, and responsibility. This philosophy can be
applied to foster student engagement, critical thinking, and holistic development in
Nigerian schools.
Key Aspects of Existentialism in Nigerian Education
- *Student Agency*: Encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and
make choices that reflect their interests and values.
- *Authenticity*: Fostering an environment where students can express themselves
genuinely and explore their identities.
- *Personal Responsibility*: Teaching students to accept responsibility for their
actions and decisions.
- *Critical Thinking*: Encouraging students to question assumptions, analyze
information, and develop well-reasoned conclusions ¹.
Benefits of Existentialism in Nigerian Education
- *Enhanced Student Engagement*: By giving students more autonomy and
agency, existentialism can increase motivation and participation in learning.
- *Improved Socio-Emotional Well-being*: Existentialism's focus on individual
freedom and responsibility can help students develop a stronger sense of self and
well-being.
- *Transformative Learning Experience*: Existentialist principles can lead to a
more meaningful and transformative learning experience, preparing students for an
ever-changing world.
Challenges and Opportunities
- *Cultural Context*: Nigerian educators must consider the cultural context and
values of their students when applying existentialist principles.
- *Teacher Training*: Educators may need training and support to effectively
integrate existentialist principles into their teaching practices.
- *Balancing Freedom and Structure*: Finding a balance between giving students
freedom and providing necessary structure and guidance will be crucial to the
successful implementation of existentialist principles in Nigerian education ¹.
Conclusion
Existentialism is a complex and multifaceted philosophy that emphasizes
individual freedom, choice, and responsibility. It has had a significant impact on
various fields, including philosophy, literature, art, and education. In the context of
Nigerian education, existentialism offers a unique perspective on student agency,
authenticity, and personal responsibility.

Summary
- *Key Principles*: Existentialism emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and
responsibility, and rejects determinism and objective truth.
- *Philosophical Roots*: Existentialism has its roots in the works of philosophers
such as Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Jean-Paul Sartre.
- *Relevance to Education*: Existentialism offers a unique perspective on student
agency, authenticity, and personal responsibility, and can be applied to foster
student engagement, critical thinking, and holistic development.
- *Benefits*: Existentialism can lead to enhanced student engagement, improved
socio-emotional well-being, and a transformative learning experience.
- *Challenges and Opportunities*: Implementing existentialist principles in
education requires careful consideration of cultural context, teacher training, and
balancing freedom and structure.
DEPARTMENT OF CURRICULUM
AND ISTRUCTIONAL
TECHNOLOGY

FACULTY OF EDUCATION

TITLE:
EXISTENTIALISM

COURSE CODE
EDU212