Monte Carlo Viewpoint explores the concept of “Closeness to Existentialism” by examining entities that embody existentialist principles. This blog post outlines categories of entities (people, concepts, works, organizations) assigned scores based on their alignment with existentialism’s core tenets of absurdism, freedom, and responsibility.
Closeness to Existentialism: Measuring the Existential Vibes
Picture this: You’re sipping your morning latte, contemplating the meaning of life, when a brilliant idea strikes you. What if we could rate stuff based on how existential it is? Enter the concept of “Closeness to Existentialism” (CE)!
What’s Existentialism, Anyway?
In a nutshell, existentialism is a philosophy that focuses on the individual’s freedom, responsibility, and authenticity in a world that can feel absurd and meaningless. It’s all about embracing the human condition and finding meaning in the face of the vast, existential void.
CE Scores: Dissecting the Existential Spectrum
Let’s break it down. We’re going to assign CE scores from 0 to 10, with 10 being the most existential of the existential. This will help us create a cosmic hierarchy of existential awesomeness. Ready yourself for the Existential Olympics!
Entities with a Closeness to Existentialism Score of 9-10
People: The Existentialist Titans
Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Søren Kierkegaard, and Simone de Beauvoir were the rockstars of existentialism. They brought us the raw and profound insights that define the philosophy. Sartre taught us that we’re all condemned to be free, while Camus confronted the absurdity of life. Kierkegaard grappled with the anguish of choice and Beauvoir shed light on the complexities of gender and existence. These folks were true originals, shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Concepts: The Cornerstones of Existentialism
Absurdism, freedom, responsibility, and authenticity – these are the building blocks of existentialism. They’re like the spices that give life its flavor. Absurdism highlights the inherent meaninglessness of existence, while existential freedom reminds us that we’re not just puppets of fate. Responsibility challenges us to own our actions, and authenticity encourages us to live in accordance with our true selves. These concepts are the compass that guides us through the existential maze.
Literary Works: Existentialism in Action
The Stranger by Albert Camus and Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre are literary masterpieces that perfectly capture the essence of existentialism. The Stranger follows Meursault, an emotionally detached outsider who murders a man and shows no remorse. Nausea, on the other hand, explores the existential crisis of Antoine Roquentin as he grapples with the meaninglessness of his existence. These books are like existential laboratories, allowing us to experience these concepts firsthand.
Organizations: Keeping Existentialism Alive
The Existentialism Society of North America is a shining example of how existentialism continues to thrive today. It’s like a club for existential enthusiasts, bringing together scholars, students, and anyone interested in the philosophy. They host conferences, publish journals, and generally keep the existential flame burning bright. So, if you’re looking to connect with fellow existentialists, this is the place to be.
Category 2: Exploring Existentialism in the Realm of Cinema
In the world of cinema, certain films have managed to capture the essence of existentialism, earning a respectable score of 8 on our “Closeness to Existentialism” scale. One such masterpiece is Ingmar Bergman’s “Winter Light.”
Winter Light: A Journey of Doubt and Despair
Set against the backdrop of a bleak Swedish island, “Winter Light” unravels the existential crisis of Tomas Ericsson, a troubled pastor who grapples with the silence of God and the meaninglessness of existence. The film becomes a profound exploration of themes that resonated with the core tenets of existentialism.
Themes of Absurdism and Isolation
Amid the desolate winter landscape, Bergman creates a world where human beings appear lost and isolated. The characters question their purpose in life amidst the apparent indifference of the universe. Tomas’s inability to bring comfort to his parishioners during a raging storm symbolizes the futility of human efforts to find meaning and connection in an absurd world.
Existential Freedom and Responsibility
Despite the overwhelming sense of absurdity, “Winter Light” also highlights the existential freedom of individuals. Tomas, despite his doubts, is faced with choices that will shape his destiny. He realizes that true freedom lies not in escaping reality but in embracing it, even in its most challenging aspects.
The Search for Meaning
As Tomas’s faith wavers, he embarks on a quest for meaning beyond the confines of traditional religion. He delves into the works of existentialist philosophers such as Nietzsche and Kierkegaard, seeking solace in their ideas about self-creation and the absurdity of existence.
Characters that Reflect Existential Struggles
The characters in “Winter Light” serve as vivid representations of existential themes. Märta, Tomas’s wife, struggles with despair and longing, embodying the existential pain of being alive. Jonas, a fisherman who has lost his faith in God, represents the rebellion against religious dogma.
A Cinematic Triumph of Existenialism
Through its haunting imagery, evocative dialogue, and exploration of profound existential themes, “Winter Light” stands as a cinematic tour de force. It invites us to confront the darkness and uncertainty of existence, while also offering a glimmer of hope in the face of despair. As Tomas utters the iconic line, “God is silent,” we are left pondering the timeless questions of meaning, purpose, and the human condition.
