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existentialism

Existentialism in its purest form is any philosophy which states that existence precedes essence; that is to say, that there is no inherent purpose in life (though normally this is not carried through to nihilism.). It also states that the physical world does not necessarily precede the conscious state, as a conscious mind must find itself in a world to attain consciousness in any meaningful state.
Nihilism is an extreme version of existentialism, as are most forms of solipsism.
existentialism by crabbadon November 4, 2007

existentialism

A philosophy which emphasizes the importance of choice. It suggests that we only exist (as human beings) if we make our own decisions independently of outside influence. However, while this freedom allows us complete control over our own destinies, it also suggests that we are the sole control over our destinies and are, as a result, isolated from God, society, and ourselves. This leads many to the conclusion that existentialism is depressing.
Officer: go over there!

Guy1: No.

Guy2: Just do what he says man.

Guy1: No I believe in existentialism. I make my own decisions.
existentialism by ersher October 18, 2008

existentialism

A philosophy which emphasizes the significance of existence and those actions which enable one to experience their own existence, such as making decisions or feeling emotions.

-or-

loneliness.
"I feel alone."
(existentialism)

existentialism

"yolo" for philosophers
Man, I can't believe I just bombed that test. #existentialism
existentialism by datscience July 30, 2013