Jean-Paul Sartre
"Existence precedes essence."
Philosophy: Existentialism, Marxism
Associated Philosophies: Existentialism, Marxism
Century: 20th
Place of Birth: France | Place of Death: France
Birth Date: 1905-06-21 | Death Date: 1980-04-15
Region: Europe
Background
Born in France, Sartre was deeply influenced by the events of World War II. He believed that humans are condemned to be free, meaning we have no predefined purpose but must create our own values and meaning through our choices. His writings explored themes like freedom, responsibility, and the absurdity of life.
Ideas and Theories
Sartre believed that people create their own meaning in life through their actions. He thought we are all free to make our own choices, and that this freedom comes with responsibility. Sartre's ideas focus on living authentically by acknowledging and embracing our freedom.
Major Works
Being and Nothingness: Sartre’s major work in existentialism, exploring the nature of existence, freedom, and responsibility. No Exit: A play illustrating the concept that 'hell is other people,' reflecting Sartre’s ideas on human relationships and existentialism.
Influenced By
Sartre was influenced by philosophers such as Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche, who also examined the role of the individual in a world without inherent meaning.
Influence on Others
His existentialist ideas have influenced a wide range of fields, from literature and psychology to politics. Philosophers like Simone de Beauvoir, his partner, also explored similar themes, particularly around freedom and responsibility.
Controversies
Sartre’s support for Marxism and his political activism created controversy, especially his defense of Soviet communism, which some saw as contradictory to his existentialist ideas of freedom. He later criticized aspects of the Soviet Union but continued to support leftist movements.
Critics
Albert Camus: A close friend turned critic, Camus disagreed with Sartre’s support of communism and felt that Sartre’s ideas ignored the complexity of human nature.
Enduring Impact
Sartre’s existentialist philosophy, which emphasizes individual freedom and responsibility, continues to influence contemporary thought. His literary works, such as 'Nausea' and 'Being and Nothingness,' remain foundational texts in existential philosophy.
Interesting Anecdotes
Sartre famously declined the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1964, stating that a writer should not allow themselves to be turned into an institution. This refusal was consistent with his belief in maintaining personal freedom and independence.
