atheistic existentialism

Atheistic existentialism is a philosophical stance that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, while rejecting the existence of God or any predetermined essence for humanity. It posits that "existence precedes essence," meaning individuals are born without a predefined purpose and must create their own meaning through their actions and choices.12

In this view, humans are radically free and responsible for defining themselves and their values in a universe devoid of inherent meaning. This freedom can be a source of anguish, as individuals confront the absurdity of existence and the lack of external validation for their choices. Atheistic existentialists, like Jean-Paul Sartre, highlight the individual's struggle to "be God" by creating meaning, a pursuit that can be ultimately futile. This philosophy often critiques societal norms and complacent ways of life that fail to acknowledge the gravity of human freedom and responsibility.34