Glossary

Existence Precedes Essence

Origin: French • Associated with: Jean-Paul Sartre • Existentialism

Definition

Sartre's principle that humans have no predetermined nature; we create ourselves through our choices and actions.

Explanation

Unlike a knife, which is designed before being made, humans exist first and define themselves afterward. There is no human nature given by God or biology. We are 'condemned to be free' and entirely responsible for what we make of ourselves.

See Also

Bad Faith Self-deception in which one denies their freedom and responsibility, treating on...

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M. M. - Coffee Drinker & Storyteller

M. M.

Coffee Drinker & Storyteller

I live among shadows and broken certainties. I speak little, I think too much. Each text is a failed attempt to translate what I can't even fully feel.

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