Kierkegaard Flashcards
(11 cards)
Define Kierkegaard’s concept of the self as a ‘relation that relates itself to itself.’ What does this imply about human nature?
Kierkegaard defines the self as a dynamic relation—a synthesis of opposing elements (finite/infinite, temporal/eternal, necessity/freedom).
This implies that human beings are ongoing projects, responsible for shaping their identity through active engagement with their inner contradictions.
What is ‘subjective truth’ according to Kierkegaard, and how does it contrast with Kant’s notion of universal moral principles?
Subjective truth is the idea that truth must be personally meaningful and lived, rather than about objective certainty.
In contrast, Kant’s moral philosophy is grounded in universal, rational principles. Kierkegaard argues that authentic existence requires individuals to choose their own guiding truth.
Explain the purpose of Kierkegaard’s use of pseudonyms. How does this relate to his method of indirect communication?
Kierkegaard used pseudonyms to present different perspectives without directly endorsing any.
This method allows readers to engage in ‘double reflection,’ encouraging personal interpretation and existential engagement.
Describe the three stages of life in Kierkegaard’s thought: the aesthetic, the ethical, and the religious. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each?
Aesthetic life focuses on pleasure and beauty but lacks depth, leading to emptiness.
Ethical life involves moral responsibility but risks conformity.
Religious life is characterized by a personal relationship with God but requires radical commitment.
What is despair in Kierkegaard’s philosophy? How does it relate to the failure to become one’s true self?
Despair is the existential condition of failing to synthesize the opposing elements of the self.
It signifies a failure to live authentically and embrace the full complexity of human existence.
Distinguish between the three forms of despair Kierkegaard identifies.
- Despair of not being conscious of having a self: living unreflectively, unaware of existential responsibility.
- Despair of weakness: recognizing freedom but avoiding it.
- Despair of defiance: trying to become entirely self-made, rejecting the role of God.
How does Kierkegaard’s concept of freedom contribute to both the possibility of despair and the potential for authentic existence?
Freedom allows individuals to shape their lives but burdens them with responsibility. It can lead to despair when misused, but enables authentic existence when one embraces it and chooses a life-defining principle.
What role does faith play in Kierkegaard’s solution to despair? Why is the ‘leap of faith’ necessary?
Faith is the only way to overcome despair and become one’s true self.
The ‘leap of faith’ involves trusting in God without rational proof, allowing the self to accept both its limitations and potential.
How does Kierkegaard build on Kant’s idea of autonomy?
Kant defines autonomy as living according to universal moral laws derived through reason.
Kierkegaard builds on this by agreeing that self-direction is essential, but he shifts the focus from rational universality to personal subjectivity. For Kierkegaard, true autonomy means choosing a life-defining truth through a leap of faith, not through rational justification.
How does Kierkegaard critique mass society and institutional religion? What alternative does he propose for authentic religious life?
Kierkegaard critiques mass society for promoting conformity and institutional religion for being emotionally hollow.
He proposes a deeply personal, inward form of faith that embraces individual responsibility.
How do Kierkegaard and Sartre compare in their views on the self, freedom, and authenticity?
Kierkegaard: The self is a synthesis of opposites (finite/infinite, temporal/eternal) that must relate to itself and to God. It’s a task to be achieved through reflection and faith.
Sartre: The self is not given—it is created through choices. “Existence precedes essence” means we define ourselves through our actions, not by any pre-existing nature.
Kierkegaard: Freedom is essential but frightening. It must be used to choose a life-defining truth, ideally grounded in a relationship with God.
Sartre: Humans are radically free in a godless universe. This freedom is inescapable and burdens us with total responsibility for who we become.
Kierkegaard: Authenticity means becoming your true self by embracing both your limitations and your potential—through a leap of faith.
Sartre: Authenticity means owning your freedom and not hiding behind excuses or social roles. Bad faith is when you deny your freedom to avoid anxiety
