I just found this excellent article that suggests 40 possible ideas about the meaning of life.
In reviewing these 40 ideas I think the most valid options are existential freedom and nihilism. Both of these philosophies suggest that man is alone in a meaningless universe with no predetermined meaning or purpose in life. They represent a good news bad news situation. The bad news is that man has no predetermined meaning or purpose. The good news is that we are free to create our own.
I asked gpt chat to describe existential freedom in more detail and this was the reply:
Existentialist freedom centers on the concept that individuals are solely responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in a world devoid of inherent meaning or predetermined nature. This freedom, while liberating, necessitates confronting the weighty implications of choice and responsibility. Existentialist philosophers view freedom as a fundamental aspect of human existence, enabling authentic self-expression and the pursuit of a unique path.
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Key aspects of existentialist freedom
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Existence precedes essence: A fundamental tenet of existentialism, articulated by philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre, is that “existence precedes essence.” This means that individuals are not born with a predetermined purpose or essence; instead, they create their own essence through their actions and choices (Sartre, 1946).
Radical freedom and responsibility: Individuals are fundamentally free to make their own choices, regardless of external factors or societal norms. Existentialist freedom refers to the idea that individuals are free to make their own choices and are responsible for the consequences of those choices. This freedom is not merely the absence of constraints but involves recognizing one’s ability to shape one’s own life. With this freedom comes the burden of complete responsibility for one’s actions.
Responsibility and anxiety: With freedom comes responsibility. Existentialists argue that individuals must confront the weight of their choices, which can lead to feelings of anxiety or “existential dread.” This anxiety arises from the absence of external guidance and the realization that one is ultimately alone in making choices that define their own life and values (Heidegger, 1927).
The absurd: The concept of the absurd, particularly explored by Albert Camus, highlights the conflict between humans’ search for meaning and the indifferent universe. Embracing existential freedom involves acknowledging this absurdity and choosing to create one’s own meaning in life (Camus, 1942).
Authenticity and bad faith: Existentialist freedom emphasizes the importance of living authentically, making choices aligned with personal values and beliefs rather than conforming to societal pressures. Conversely, denying or avoiding this freedom and responsibility is termed “bad faith”.
Rejection of determinism: Existentialists reject deterministic views that suggest human behavior is entirely shaped by external factors such as biology, society, or fate. Instead, they argue that individuals have the capacity to transcend these influences through conscious choice (Camus, 1942).
In conclusion, existentialist freedom highlights the individual’s power to shape their own existence through conscious choice and action, despite the inherent uncertainties and challenges of life.
References
– Sartre, J.-P. (1946). Existentialism is a Humanism. Yale University Press.
– Heidegger, M. (1927). Being and Time. Harper & Row.
– Camus, A. (1942). The Myth of Sisyphus. Vintage Books.