Philosophy often serves as a guide for those seeking to lead a more meaningful life; however, the abundance of information available can sometimes lead to confusion. To truly benefit from philosophical insights, it is essential to revisit the core ideas that have shaped its foundation. Among these, Søren Kierkegaard’s philosophy and the concept of existential angst stand out as pivotal. Gaining a clear understanding of these ideas can profoundly affect how philosophy is applied to enrich one’s life. This article will explore Kierkegaard’s philosophy, the notion of existential angst, and their importance in the quest for a more meaningful existence.
Key features of Kierkegaard’s philosophy
Søren Kierkegaard, a Danish philosopher, is often considered the father of existentialism. His philosophy focuses on the individual, emphasizing personal choice, responsibility, and the importance of living an authentic life. Kierkegaard believed that each person must confront their existence and make meaningful decisions, even in the face of doubt or uncertainty. One of his key ideas is the “leap of faith,” which refers to the act of committing to something—such as religious belief—without absolute proof, relying instead on personal conviction.
Kierkegaard also explored the concept of despair, which he saw as a result of failing to live in alignment with one’s true self. He described despair as a struggle between the self and the higher purpose or meaning in life, pushing individuals to confront who they are and who they want to become. Furthermore, he introduced the idea of three “stages of life;” the aesthetic, the ethical, and the religious. These stages represent different ways people can approach life, with the religious stage being the highest and most fulfilling, as it connects individuals to their faith and ultimate purpose.
Kierkegaard’s work invites readers to reflect deeply on their own lives, encouraging introspection and the courage to face life’s uncertainties. His philosophy remains influential today, inspiring conversations about freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in an often chaotic world.
What is existential angst?
Søren Kierkegaard, a Danish philosopher, described existential angst as a deep feeling of anxiety that arises from the realization of human freedom and the responsibility it carries. For Kierkegaard, this angst is unique to human beings because we are aware of our ability to make choices that define our lives. This awareness brings a sense of uncertainty and sometimes fear, as there are no fixed guidelines or guarantees about which choices are the “right” ones.
Kierkegaard believed that existential angst is rooted in the tension between our desire for clarity and structure in life and the reality of our freedom to create our own meaning and direction. This freedom can feel overwhelming because it highlights the lack of external certainty or authority to rely on when making decisions. This sense of groundlessness is what Kierkegaard identified as the source of existential angst.
He also viewed angst as an unavoidable part of the human condition. It reflects the infinite possibilities that lie before us and the weight of deciding how to act within those possibilities. Though uncomfortable, Kierkegaard saw it as a natural and integral part of living authentically, as it forces individuals to confront their freedom and take responsibility for their choices.
This example helps to demonstrate this philosophical perspective. A common illustration of Kierkegaard’s view on existential angst is the struggle of an individual standing on the edge of a cliff. They feel the simultaneous pull of fear and freedom—fear of falling and freedom in the knowledge that they could choose to jump. This tension represents the overwhelming awareness of their own freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. The individual is not restrained in any physical way, yet the mere possibility of their freedom to act causes a deep sense of anxiety. The angst arises not from external danger but from the internal realization of the infinite possibilities of choice and the weight of their consequences. This scenario encapsulates the inner conflict and self-awareness that Kierkegaard believed were intrinsic to the human condition, presenting a vivid picture of how people grapple with their own freedom and existence.
Challenges to Kierkegaard’s view about existential angst
Some philosophers object to or reject Kierkegaard’s view about existential angst for a variety of reasons, often grounded in their differing perspectives on the nature of human existence, emotion, and philosophy’s role in guiding life. One common objection is that Kierkegaard’s emphasis on subjective experience and personal struggle is seen by some as overly individualistic. Critics argue that this focus neglects the broader social, cultural, and communal aspects of human existence, which also play a key role in shaping people’s emotions and experiences. They suggest that human existence cannot be fully understood if it is viewed only through a solitary and deeply personal lens.
Another objection lies in the nebulous and emotional nature of existential angst itself. Some critics argue that it lacks clear definition and is too vague to serve as a foundational concept in philosophy. They question whether such a difficult-to-define phenomenon can genuinely reflect a universal human experience, as Kierkegaard implies. Philosophers from more empirical or logical traditions, in particular, may criticize existential angst as an abstract emotional state that cannot be systematically analyzed or scientifically validated, leading them to reject its philosophical significance.
Furthermore, some philosophers take issue with the apparent negativity of Kierkegaard’s focus on existential angst. They argue that concentrating on feelings of dread, anxiety, or despair might lead to a narrow or biased view of human existence. These critics propose that philosophy should emphasize more positive, constructive aspects of life such as happiness, collaboration, or the pursuit of knowledge and progress. They worry that focusing on angst risks promoting a pessimistic worldview.
Lastly, certain philosophical traditions, particularly those rooted in materialism or determinism, may challenge the very premise of existential angst. For instance, these traditions often see human emotions and experiences as entirely the result of biological or environmental factors, rather than expressions of a deeper existential struggle. From this standpoint, angst may be seen as nothing more than a psychological or physiological state, devoid of the profound existential meaning attributed to it by Kierkegaard. This differs fundamentally from Kierkegaard’s more spiritually grounded perspective, leading such philosophers to dismiss the concept altogether.
Why existential angst is important to Kierkegaard’s philosophy
Understanding the concept of existential angst is essential to fully grasping Kierkegaard’s philosophy for several key reasons.
- Understanding Human Freedom
Existential angst helps highlight the concept of human freedom by emphasizing the weight of individual choices. People often feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of shaping their own lives, which can create anxiety. This feeling arises when individuals confront the vast possibilities available to them, and they realize that every decision they make has significant consequences. By exploring existential angst, we gain a deeper appreciation of how freedom can evoke both empowerment and discomfort. This balance is key to understanding the struggles people face when trying to live authentically.
- Recognizing the Role of Anxiety
Anxiety, according to existential thought, is not necessarily a negative emotion but rather a marker of important truths about human existence. Existential angst reveals the uncertainty and unpredictability of life. When people find themselves in moments of deep reflection, anxiety surfaces as they wrestle with questions about purpose and meaning. This awareness of anxiety as a natural part of existence enables us to approach the human experience with greater nuance and care. It shows how feelings of unease are not obstacles, but part of the process of searching for meaning.
- Confronting the Unknown
Existential angst draws attention to human confrontation with the unknown, including concepts like death, the future, or the divine. This unease stems from the inherent inability to have complete certainty about these profound matters. By considering existential angst, we see how individuals are motivated to explore questions that shape their beliefs and behaviours. This points to the importance of grappling with life’s uncertainties as a way to grow and understand the self. It also underscores the human tendency to seek answers even in the absence of clarity.
Contrasting Kierkegaard’s philosophy with Arthur Schopenhauer
Søren Kierkegaard and Arthur Schopenhauer both explored themes of the human condition, but their perspectives on existential angst highlight key differences in their philosophies. Kierkegaard viewed existential angst as a natural part of human existence, stemming from the individual’s awareness of freedom and responsibility. He believed that this angst was a necessary step in personal growth, pushing individuals to confront their choices and seek a meaningful existence. For Kierkegaard, angst was not inherently negative but an opportunity to discover one’s true self.
Schopenhauer, on the other hand, focused more on the suffering and struggles of life as inherent to the human condition. He emphasized the role of the “will” as a driving, yet ultimately unfulfilling, force behind existence. The suffering he described was more rooted in the endless desires and frustrations of living, suggesting a sense of resignation as a way to escape misery. While Kierkegaard saw angst as a catalyst for reaching higher purpose, Schopenhauer tended to adopt a more pessimistic approach, viewing life’s struggles as unavoidable and largely devoid of ultimate resolution.
This distinction demonstrates how Kierkegaard’s philosophy leans towards transformation and hope through confronting existential angst, while Schopenhauer’s philosophy underscores the inevitability of suffering, with peace found only through detachment and denial of desires. Essentially, Kierkegaard invites individuals to engage deeply with life’s challenges, whereas Schopenhauer suggests turning away from them.
Existential Angst, Kierkegaard’s philosophy and the meaning of life
Reflecting on Kierkegaard’s ideas, regardless of whether one agrees with his view on existential angst, offers a valuable opportunity to consider what it means to live a meaningful life. While his philosophy may seem distant or abstract at first glance, wrestling with these ideas brings everyday concerns about purpose, choices, and personal responsibility into sharper focus. Life often presents moments of uncertainty, where we confront big questions about our identity, goals, and ultimate purpose. These moments are not just theoretical—they are deeply personal and shape how we relate to ourselves and the world around us.
By reflecting on views like Kierkegaard’s, we are reminded of the importance of self-awareness. Taking time to explore and challenge our own beliefs, fears, and values can help us break out of habits that leave us feeling stuck or disconnected. This process of reflection encourages us to consider whether the path we are on aligns with a deeper sense of personal truth, instead of simply following societal norms or the expectations of others. Engaging with these concepts fosters a sense of intention, helping us make choices that feel authentic and grounded in who we truly are.
Practically speaking, thinking about existential ideas like angst can also be motivating. It reminds us that striving for a meaningful life is not about achieving perfection or avoiding discomfort but about navigating life’s inevitable uncertainties with courage. Acknowledging fears or doubts doesn’t mean dwelling on them; rather, it means recognizing them as natural parts of the human experience. This awareness can provide a sense of freedom, empowering us to take leaps of faith in pursuit of passions, relationships, or goals that resonate with our values, even when the outcomes are unclear.
Ultimately, reflecting on existential ideas pushes us to live with greater intention. Whether we find ourselves agreeing with Kierkegaard or forming different conclusions, the process invites us to pause, reassess, and prioritize what truly matters in our lives. This effort to engage with life’s questions and challenges thoughtfully is a meaningful step toward living in a way that feels fulfilling and authentic.
Further reading
Cooper, D. E. (1990). Existentialism: A reconstruction. Oxford University Press.
Evans, C. S. (1990). Kierkegaard’s “Fragments” and “Postscript”. Humanity Books.
Gardiner, P. L. (1988). Kierkegaard. Oxford University Press.
Kierkegaard, S. (1989). The sickness unto death (A. Hannay, Trans.). Penguin Books. (Original work published 1849)
Kierkegaard, S. (1992). Either/Or (A. Hannay, Trans.). Penguin Books. (Original work published 1843)
Marino, G. (Ed.). (2004). Basic writings of existentialism. Modern Library.
Taylor, M. C. (1980). Journeys to selfhood: Hegel and Kierkegaard. University of California Press.
Westphal, M. (1996). Becoming a self: A reading of Kierkegaard’s “Concluding Unscientific Postscript”. Purdue University Press.
Wittgenstein, L. (1980). Culture and value. University of Chicago Press.
Woessner, M. C. (2010). Kierkegaard and existentialism. Cambridge University Press.