Discussion Post: Philosophy
Sartre's "Existentialism is a Humanism"
• Sartre defines existentialism as the belief that for human beings existence comes before essence. He contrasts this with the state of objects, where production (or essence) precedes existence.
o What does Sartre mean by this expression, existence precedes essence?
o How does this distinguish a subject from an object?
o In what manner, does the idea of God as creator reduce the human being to an object?
• In respect to the notion of an "atheistic existentialism," Sartre writes that existentialism "place the entire responsibility for his existence squarely upon his shoulders."
o What does he mean when he says the human being is solely responsible for his existence?
o How does an atheist have more responsibility than a theist?
o How is an atheistic existentialist responsible for "all men"?
• Sartre writes: "First I ought to commit myself and then act my commitment, according to the time-honored formula that ‘one need not hope in order to undertake one's work.'" His suggestion is that we should act without hope.
o What does it mean to act with hope?
o Why does Sartre argue that we should act without hope, that we live a more responsible and fuller life without hope?
The response should include a reference list. One-inch margins, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space and APA style of writing and citations.