Question

In continental philosophy, particularly existentialism, thinkers reject the idea that predetermined or given meanings/values exist in life. They stress that individuals must embrace their freedom and responsibility to create meaning for themselves. These philosophers also argue against the notion of inherent human nature or essential characteristics, including those related to gender identity. However, it's important to note that there are secular philosophers who argue for predetermined and given meaning and value in life, opposing the idea that these are entirely arbitrary social constructs. Additionally, some philosophers advocate for essentialism. Four notable figures in this regard include René Guénon, a 20th-century French philosopher who believed in the inherent meaning of human life and the importance of following cultural traditions. Julius Evola, another critic of modern thought, argued that modernity, starting in 16th-century Western Europe, de-sacralized human existence, making life meaningless. Alexander Dugin, a controversial Russian philosopher influenced by Guénon and Evola, also critiques modernity in his extensive work 'Noomachia.' Lastly, Carl Jung proposed that human life has meaning, which requires introspective work to tap into the subconscious and harmoniously integrate it with consciousness, revealing the significance of religious teachings. These thinkers share a traditionalist perspective, asserting the existence of human essence or nature. Existentialism in Continental Philosophy:

According to existentialism, what is the view on predetermined or given meanings/values in life?
A. They are inherent and universally applicable.
B. They are predetermined but subject to individual interpretation.
C. They are entirely arbitrary and must be created by individuals.
D. They are fixed and unchangeable.

Answer 1

Existentialism holds that predetermined or given meanings and values are not inherent but must be created by individuals. Hence, the correct view in existential philosophy is that they are arbitrary and individually crafted (Option C).

Step-by-step explanation:

In existentialism, particularly within Continental Philosophy, the viewpoint is that there are no predetermined or given meanings or values in life. Instead, existential philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre advocate the notion that "existence precedes essence," which implies individuals must actively create their own meaning and values through their choices and actions. Therefore, in response to the student's question regarding existentialism's view on predetermined or given meanings/values in life, the answer is:

C. They are entirely arbitrary and must be created by individuals.

According to existentialism, human beings first come into existence and then are free to determine their own essence through their choices. No essential characteristics, including those related to gender identity, are seen as inherent or predetermined. Beings are not defined by any preordained nature; rather, they are free to shape their own identities and the world around them, carrying the weight of this tremendous freedom and responsibility.