Final Answer:
Kierkegaard was called the "Father of Existentialism" for his influential contributions to the philosophical movement, emphasizing individual existence and choice. His works, including "Fear and Trembling" and "The Sickness Unto Death," laid the groundwork for existentialist thought. This label reflects his enduring impact on shaping discussions about human existence and personal responsibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Søren Kierkegaard, a pivotal figure in the history of philosophy, is often hailed as the "Father of Existentialism." This label stems from his profound impact on shaping the core tenets of existentialist thought. In his philosophical works, particularly "Fear and Trembling" and "The Sickness Unto Death," Kierkegaard delves into the subjective experience of the individual and the significance of personal choice. Existentialism, as a philosophical movement, places a strong emphasis on individual existence, freedom, and the inherent responsibility individuals bear for their choices.
Kierkegaard's exploration of the human condition, faith, and the nature of existence laid the foundation for existentialist thinkers who came after him. His focus on the inherent tension between individual freedom and the responsibilities that come with it resonated with later philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, who further developed and popularized existentialist ideas.
Kierkegaard's legacy as the "Father of Existentialism" is marked by his profound influence on a philosophical movement that continues to shape discussions on human existence, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of meaning.