Existentialism and humanism are two different concepts often used when trying to understand human behavior. They both offer different ways of looking at the challenges that life throws our way. This article will discuss the key differences between existentialism and humanism.
What is Existentialism?
“Existentialism is the attempt to confront and deal with meaninglessness.” [Source]. Existentialism can also be explained as “a philosophical theory or approach which emphasizes the person’s existence as a free and responsible agent determining their development through acts of the will” [Source]. Existentialists argue that humans should make their own rational decisions in this irrational universe. People have the freedom to choose their actions and are responsible for the consequences of those choices. According to this concept, our lives have no inherent meaning or purpose. However, it states that the purpose we create for our lives is what gives them a sense of significance.
Advantages of Existentialism
Existentialism emphasizes the importance of people being free and making their own decisions. Having a free will enables humans to find meaning in a life that might otherwise be meaningless. Also, people are liberated in defining their purpose and meaning, with no universal formula to follow. This allows for a lot of creativity and self-expression.
Disadvantages of Existentialism
A major disadvantage of existentialism is that it is pessimistic. Existentialists are criticized because they focus too much on the negative and ignore life’s positives. This means they don’t enjoy life because they think it is meaningless. Existentialism is very subjective because the solution to a meaningless life lies within an individual’s choices in dealing with their life. Also, it demands intellectual people who can assess the nature of the world and come up with ways to counter meaningless in life. Existentialism has a weakness in terms of moral relativity and the aspect of quietism. Quietism relates “to what an individual cannot actualize: therefore, another individual should do it” [Source].
What is Humanism?
Humanism is a philosophical view that focuses on people’s potential. It believes that people can think for themselves and figure out what is right and wrong.” [Source]. It is also defined as “A progressive philosophy of life is one that does not involve any theistic or supernatural beliefs. This philosophy affirms our ability and responsibility to lead meaningful ethical lives and contribute to the greater good.” [Source].
Humanism believes that human aspects are more essential than religious, divine, or spiritual factors. The humanism principle is based on people having an ethical obligation that compels them to live meaningful lives. It emphasizes the significance of human values and dignity.
Advantages of Humanism
Humanism places importance on human values and dignity, so it helps shape good citizens who observe their values and maintain their dignity. Also, humanism is more about people being morally upright instead of running wildly in the world. Humanism also “proposes that people can resolve problems through science and reason” [Source]. Humanism influences humanistic therapy in client-centered therapy, existential therapy, and Gestalt therapy. It also assists in personal development because of its emphasis on self-actualization and pushing one to reach their full potential. Humanism can be used as a “tool of self-discovery and personal development.” It is also an agent of social change by encouraging the betterment of communities. This is done by prioritizing personal well-being and providing social support.
Disadvantages of Humanism
The disadvantage of humanism is that it is too positive when talking about human behavior. Humans are intrinsically good and always choose the right paths in life [Source]. Also, humanism puts too much emphasis on subjective experience rather than an objective perspective. Humanism is not scientific since it does not use any rigorous or objective methods. Emphasis on self-consciousness is a disadvantage of humanism because it limits the scope of a humanistic approach.
What are the effects of Existentialism?
Kierkegaard considered the first existentialist philosopher, argued that “every individual – not society or religion – is solely responsible for giving meaning to life and living life passionately and authentically.”
The effects of existentialism are that people become too independent from any happenings in life. They are given too much freedom to use in defining their meaning and purpose in life. They are freed from religion, social values, stereotypes, and beliefs. Humanity can develop through acts of free will and “that every person can make every one of their choices using free will and wisdom from life experiences” [Source]. Existentialists argue that every individual is unique, so education must consider individual differences and try to cater to them.
To some extent, existentialism pushes people to be rebellious against the state of the world. They tend to ignore societal values and belief systems used to define societies.
Can Humanism overcome Hate?
Humanism’s core tenants involve propelling human values and dignity. It also believes that humans are good and bound to make the correct choices since they are influenced by self-awareness. Humanism aims to produce morally upright people in society who can support the well-being of a community. Such a spirit can overcome hate or any discriminatory tendencies. Kashmir News Service penned an article titled “Spirit of humanism alone guides society to overcome hate, bitterness: Rana” [Source]. This article reveals that brotherhood and tranquillity are part of humanism which is vital in overcoming hate in society.
What are Examples of Humanism?
Examples of humanism practiced in society include “Choosing to focus on other’s strengths” [Source 7], and this helps to elevate them. Another example is when a person pays attention to similarities between themselves with other people rather than focusing on differences. This improves unity among people due to the realization of common ground. Humanism also extends to a tolerance of the unique lifestyle and culture, thus removing discriminatory tendencies or negative stereotypes. Humanists advocate for human rights, free speech, progressive policies, and democracy. All of these characteristics work towards self-development and society development.
