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Post by Gillian Laird on May 31, 2024 20:02:19 GMT
To be honest, I didn't know much about Existentialism before doing some of the readings for this week, and I was not sure whether or not I would find it interesting. However, I am very glad to say that I am highly intrigued by the history surrounding Existentialism, its tricky definition, and how it looks through an American lens. From what I understand, Existentialism is essentially the idea that humanity is burdened by its freedom because of the never-ending possibilities surrounding what we individually do with our autonomy. From a modern perspective, I think these ideas have developed in popularity due to the rise in social media use in America--especially among young people. Everyone seems to have an opinion on how their fellow members of society should use their freedom/freedom of speech, and that seems to be creating quite the existential crisis. I'm curious, as this class continues, to see how Existentialism worked throughout American history.
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Post by dcomeaux on May 31, 2024 22:19:12 GMT
I will be honest, I am still slightly confused on what existentialism ACTUALLY is. It is hard to really get a definition because there is really no set definition that is agreed upon. From what I gather, it is that people are free to make their own choices. People set their pwn purpose. It seems kind of confusing and sometimes doesn't really make a ton of sense...but, that is what I get from it. Now to work with it in class will be another thing, ha!
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Post by Dr. Nemmers on May 31, 2024 22:33:35 GMT
That's a great working definition, Gilian! You've got the gist of it-- or at least some of the gist of it. As we'll see, there are indeed many approximate and shifting definitions of existentialism, many different strains, and these evolve over time and in different circumstances.
So you're also very right, Dusti-- it is confusing and "there is no set definition that is agreed upon." And don't worry, this is Day 2 of Week 1, so we'll be adding to our understanding as we proceed.
But we can already start to see some confluences. For example, Americanism is very much predicated upon individualism, which is also a hallmark of existentialism. Where do we see individualism in the stories that we're reading for this week? And what would an existentialist reading of these texts suggest about these individuals and their doings?
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Post by dcomeaux on May 31, 2024 22:57:03 GMT
I think we see individualism in the story by Hemingway. The young waiter is only worried about himself and not worried about how his actions might affect the elderly patron or the older waiter for that matter. He is only concerned about leaving and getting home. I can see how that would tie into existentialism. I have never really thought about either before so I am excited to see what this class introduces!
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Post by meagangcurrie on Jun 1, 2024 0:07:12 GMT
When thinking about it, existentialism can be found in many places from literary works to the social world. I have also noticed some similarities between existentialism and nihilism, both are interesting to discuss! When it comes to what existentialism is, I can provide elements of it but I cannot seem to define it properly. I am excited to learn about the different strains and perspectives regarding it.
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Post by Dr. Nemmers on Jun 1, 2024 19:09:58 GMT
Good, Dusti-- and I agree, Meagan, that there is a relationship between existentialism and nihilism. As we'll see throughout the semester, two main strains of existentialism take up either sides of this issue-- whether to believe in something, or believe in nothing. And then the further question is what attitude to take to this essential condition of the universe. If there is nothing and nothing to believe in, is that a good or a bad thing? Should you despair or rejoice? (or both)
It's the same question for individualism-- if we are ultimately alone in the world, is that a good or bad thing? And then attitude and emotion and behavior, etc. etc.
As you can see, there's lots to explore and unwrap...
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