Question

In what sense is existentialism empowering, and in what sense is it burdensome, or even terrifying? Do you see yourself as an existentialist? Why or why not?

Answer 1

• Existentialism is defining life to suit to live as an individual without any external influence, such as religion, culture or ethnic identity. It is to identify the purpose of existence and live life consciously and responsibly.
• It is really an empowered living in a sense that when I do what I want to do, I’m happy rather than living by someone else’ definition. Most people in this world is suffering because of the breaks or obstacles the society, race or religion has set for them. Existentialists overcome these obstacles and achieve what they are destined to achieve and do. Others, go under tremendous stress because they were not able to move as an individual but only as a group or society. It’s also about living in the present as against most people who either live in the past or in the future thus, stressed or anxious.
• Existentialism might pose a great threat to the pre-set social norms because the purpose of existentialism is to break the barriers that are set and progress individually.
• I’m partly an existentialist and partly not because I was able to listen to my inner voice and pursue whatever I want to do in my life but I also conform to my societies rules when it comes to certain societal behaviours.