Jean-Paul Sartre was a profound French philosopher, playwright, novelist, and political activist who lived from 1905 to 1980. Emerging as a key figure in the existentialist movement during the mid-20th century, Sartre sought to explore the complexities of human freedom, responsibility, and existence itself. His work not only pushed the philosophical boundaries but also resonated with the socio-political turbulence of his time, particularly the aftermath of World War II.One of Sartre’s most significant contributions to moral philosophy is his concept of existentialism, which fundamentally asserts that existence precedes essence. This idea posits that individuals are not born with predetermined purposes or natures; instead, they are thrust into existence and must sculpt their own identities and meanings through choices and actions. In his seminal work, "Being and Nothingness," published in 1943, Sartre delves deeply into the nature of being, consciousness, and the concept of 'nothingness.' He argues that human beings are condemned to be free, meaning that we bear the weight of our freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. On top of that, Sartre's ideas about 'the gaze' illustrate the inherent relational aspect of human existence, suggesting that our identities are often shaped by how others perceive us. To better comprehend Sartre's morality, consider his arguments around authenticity and bad faith. Authenticity refers to the idea of living in accordance with one’s true self and values, as opposed to conforming to societal expectations. In contrast, bad faith, or "mauvaise foi," is Sartre’s term for self-deception, whereby individuals avoid the anxiety that comes from absolute freedom by adopting false identities, denying their own freedom, or adhering rigidly to societal roles. For instance, think of a person who stays in a job they despise simply because it’s expected of them or a political figure who compromises their values to gain popularity. By succumbing to bad faith, they reject the freedom to choose their own path, and in doing so, they forfeit their authentic selves.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related