The phrase “existence precedes essence,” coined by the renowned French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, serves as a critical lens for understanding existentialism. While interpretations of this assertion vary among philosophers, a widely accepted interpretation is that human beings are responsible for creating their own meaning. This perspective suggests that the universe lacks inherent meaning, and, echoing the thoughts of Martin Heidegger, we find ourselves thrust into a seemingly indifferent, if not violent, reality.
This existential viewpoint encapsulates the core philosophies of existentialists: the world is perceived as a hostile environment, necessitating that individuals struggle to navigate and overcome this adversity. However, this perspective raises several concerns:
Fear and Adversarial Relationships: This worldview fosters an unhealthy fear and a problematic relationship with both social and natural environments, leading individuals to view nature as an adversary to be conquered rather than a partner to coexist with.
Endless Search for Meaning: It reduces human beings to mere seekers of meaning—a pursuit that can become an unending source of stress and frustration, ultimately yielding no satisfying resolution.
False Dichotomy: The insistence on a division between existence and essence can be more harmful than helpful. The implication that humans possess no intrinsic values until they create them for themselves mirrors religious doctrines that view humanity as inherently flawed or sinful.
In reality, the supposed separation between existence and essence is an error and an illusion. Existence inherently encompasses essence. We do not fabricate our own values; rather, we come to recognize the values that are already intrinsic to us. Our ignorance of this inherent essence does not imply its absence. All creation derives its value from its creator, not the other way around.
If we were devoid of essence, then whatever we create and label as meaningful would be equally devoid of significance. Essence resides within the creator, and through the act of creation, the creator willingly shares a part of their essence (self) with their creation. Thus, creation becomes a gift of oneself to another—a profound sharing of identity and purpose.
In conclusion, recognizing the inseparable nature of existence and essence invites a more harmonious understanding of humanity’s place in the universe, fostering meaningful connections rather than adversarial ones.