Man’s Search for Meaning : Existentialism and Nihilism

Man’s Search for Meaning: Existentialism and Nihilism

Maslow’s Hierarchy of NeedsView the diagram and take notes

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Existentialism

Dasein, or humans, the type of being we call human beings—have no control over one’s social environment (“thrown-ness”).

Martin Heidegger (1889-1976)

The They = Society

Through the They, we make sense of ourselves and the world around us by learning how “one lives”

How does “The They,” or society, teach us how to live?

Is this a form of control?

Dasein and The They

We are free to choose any type of existence, and we must accept responsibility for our actions!

Jean Paul Sartre

Life is absurdBut you should live like your life is not absurd and does have meaning!

Albert Camus

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Nihilism

Toons

Does he believe that life is meaningless?Does he believe in finding and living an authentic life?Does he believe that we are free to choose our own existence and, therefore, are responsible for our own lives?And most importantly…• Does he believe that anticipating one’s own death can lead

one to profound changes in living an authentic existence?

But what about Frankl?!!!

To what extent are we responsible for the quality of our lives?

We don’t control fate, but what does it take to control our reaction to circumstances beyond our control?

How can existential questioning make your life better? Really?

Does man have another choice of action, besides apathy, in the face of horrific circumstances?