Comment: Jean-Paul Sartre's famous quote, "Man is condemned to be free," encapsulates the core of his existentialist philosophy. It suggests that while we are inherently free to make our own choices, this freedom is also a burden that we must bear. We are not the creators of our own existence, but once we are in this world, we are entirely responsible for our actions and decisions.Man is condemned to be free.
Condemned, because he did not create himself, in other respect is free; because, once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.
The Existentialist does not believe in the power of passion.
He will never agree that a sweeping passion is a ravaging torrent which fatally leads a man to certain acts and is therefore an excuse.
He thinks that man is responsible for his passion.
Credit: Jean-Paul Sartre
Sartre rejects the idea that uncontrollable passions can absolve us of responsibility, arguing that individuals are accountable for their choices, regardless of their feelings. His philosophy emphasizes the profound freedom and autonomy of human existence, while also highlighting the weighty responsibility that comes with it. We are "condemned" to make choices in a world without inherent meaning, and we must bear the consequences of those choices.
Source: Existentialism and Human Emotions
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- Philosophy as a Relational Practice Philosophy, responsibility, and meaning in everyday life
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