Existentialism and the Denial of Death

Existentialism is a philosophy that emphasizes individual freedom and responsibility, along with the search for meaning in an increasingly chaotic world. One cornerstone of existentialism lies in its rejection of traditional religious beliefs and the concept of an afterlife. This rejection of God and death is central to understanding human experience and our place within society.

Existentialism emerged in the wake of World War II, a period marked by great upheaval and uncertainty. Many turned to traditional religious beliefs for solace and guidance during this turbulent time; however, others believed religion no longer provided meaning and purpose in a world deeply damaged by conflict and suffering.

Existentialism stands apart from traditional religious beliefs in its rejection of the concept of an afterlife. Existentialists maintain there is no evidence for an afterlife or any all-knowing deity controlling human life; rather, they assert that humans are fundamentally alone in this world and must find meaning and purpose for themselves.

Existentialist philosophy emphasizes the concept of death as an essential concept, forcing us to confront our ultimate mortality and the meaninglessness of human existence. Traditional religious beliefs often promise an afterlife or reward for good deeds; however, existentialists contend these promises are based on wishful thinking and ultimately serve only to distract us from facing up to our own mortality.

Extantialism rejects the concept of an afterlife and God, providing us with a framework for understanding human experience that is grounded in rationality and personal responsibility. Instead of relying on supernatural explanations for what happens around us, existentialism urges us to take control over our own lives and create meaning and purpose for ourselves.

The rejection of traditional religious beliefs also allows us to explore the existential condition more deeply. Traditional religions typically tie their meaning to a set of prescribed beliefs and practices that can restrict human experience; on the other hand, existentialism provides a broader framework for comprehending human emotions and experiences.

Furthermore, existentialists' rejection of traditional religious beliefs allows us to explore the darker sides of human existence. Existentialists believe that facing our mortality forces us to recognize the value and significance of life itself; death forces us to acknowledge our limits and cherish each moment rather than taking them for granted.

Though rejecting God and death may seem like a desolate worldview, existentialism provides us with a framework for understanding human experience that is grounded in personal responsibility and the search for meaning and purpose. By rejecting traditional religious beliefs and accepting our own mortality, we are able to fully appreciate the worth and significance of each human experience while creating meaning within an often chaotic universe.