Final answer:
Sartre's philosophy posits that we first exist and then define our essence through choices, warning against following safe, conventional paths that deny our freedom and responsibility. Choosing a career to satisfy social expectations, rather than one's true passion, is an example of living in 'bad faith', which Sartre advises against to ensure an authentic existence.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Sartre, the expression of our freedom is essential, but it comes with the heavy responsibility of sculpting and defining our own essence.
An example of pursuing an essence that feels safe and conventional might involve choosing a career path solely based on societal or parental expectations, rather than following one's true passion or calling. Sartre believes we should be careful in such cases because adhering to conventional roles or expectations can lead to 'bad faith', where individuals deny their own freedom and responsibility by acting as if they have no choice in shaping their lives.
Existentialism advocates that existence precedes essence; thus, we are free to make our own choices and must accept the profound responsibility that comes with this freedom.
Sartre's philosophy underlines the importance of authentic choices that align with one's own values and desires, even if this path is less conventional and more uncertain. Committing to a life that is not reflective of one's free will or is a product of avoidance is considered living inauthentically, which Sartre warns against.