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Discussion » Questions » Human Behavior » ~If you are an existentialist, what do you rely on, in place of meaning, as a means of coping with the more painful or stressful challenges?
Benedict Arnold

~If you are an existentialist, what do you rely on, in place of meaning, as a means of coping with the more painful or stressful challenges?

 

~ Do you find that having a personal purpose can fulfill the need to have a reason to exist?

 

~ Do you find existentialism makes you more likely to become or remain depressed?

~ Have you developed a philosophy or set of values which helps make life worthwhile and enjoyable? If so, what is it?

Posted - November 24, 2016
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Responses


  • 372
    It's a complicated question and depends on what you mean by "existentialism". Albert Camus addressed this very queston in The Myth of Sisyphus. It's a short, worth-while read.
      November 24, 2016 5:49 PM MST
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  • Thank you! :-)
    I will get a copy.
    I was aware of Camus's influence - probably should have read him 40 years ago.
      November 25, 2016 7:41 PM MST
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  • 46117
    How many philosophies are there, Hart?  How many minds think they have an answer?  How many of them really KNOW anything at all?

    So, why pick that one?  You think that has some worthy quality that say, being a realist, or a pragmatist does not have ?

    That is why I can cope.  I realized a long time ago, in my 20's that although Existentialism sounds like a really superior line of thought, it simply is just that. 

    When we engage our minds to solve issues of metaphysics or epistemology?  We need another tool.  Simply put, when you shut out the voice that is the mind, that long-running dialogue that passes for intelligence, we gain a deep wisdom that transcends the WHY and just IS.

    When we shut out our worried mind?  We have our living and loving self to just BE that.   Why worry, why try and solve answers that no one will ever solve?

    Just let it be. 

    This post was edited by WM BARR . =ABSOLUTE TRASH at November 24, 2016 6:23 PM MST
      November 24, 2016 6:22 PM MST
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  • Existentialism, for me, is not some philosophy picked up in a classroom or a book. It's not chosen.
    It's a line of thought that is remarkably widespread in the Western world, one that has permeated my mind from earliest beginnings since it was my parents' approach to life. Some people are raised with God, and of them, only 6% permanently abandon all faith. But of those raised as atheists, only 3% later adopt some form of religion. 
    Most atheists are usually existentialists, and if they also suffer from depression, then the world view can magnify the negative thoughts and emotions -- it becomes a major concern that needs serious attention. Much of the art and culture of the 20thC reflects it.
    My question is for people who are existentialists - not for those who have never experienced what it's like to live with it in every aspect of conscious awareness from earliest memories.
      November 25, 2016 2:14 PM MST
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  • 44622
    Too deep for me dear...I just smoke a bowl. Life is simple.
      November 24, 2016 7:30 PM MST
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  • I just you know...
      November 24, 2016 7:30 PM MST
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