Existentialism

Heidegger was a German philosopher who developed a unique philosophical approach known as ontology. His philosophy was based on the idea that reality can be understood through an examination of our experience of the world. Heidegger argued that existence is a process of becoming and that our experience of the world is shaped by our relationship to and engagement with things in the world.

One of the most important things I learned about Heidegger is that he believed in a focused and intentional approach to philosophy. He argued that philosophy should be an active engagement with the world, rather than a passive and contemplative observation of it. He believed that one should strive to uncover and explore the meaning of being, and that this exploration should be done with an open and inquisitive mind.

Both Nietzsche's Ubermensch and Kierkegaard's Knight of Faith share the idea of being devoted to a higher purpose or cause. However, Ubermensch is an individual striving for self-mastery and self-development, while the Knight of Faith is devoted to a higher power. The Ubermensch is focused on their own self-actualization while the Knight of Faith puts their faith in a higher power.

Kierkegaard's knight of faith teaches that an individual must make a leap of faith in order to be truly fulfilled. This requires individuals to make a conscious decision to trust in something beyond themselves, and to be willing to give up everything for it. Ultimately, the knight of faith must be willing to surrender themselves to God in order to gain true knowledge and understanding.

Nietzsche's Ubermensch is a philosophy that teaches us to strive for greatness, to be self aware, and to take responsibility for our own actions and destinies. We learn to embrace our individualism, without fear of judgement, and to be unafraid of embracing our true potential. Ultimately, it teaches us to be the best versions of ourselves.

Black existentialism emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the oppression of black people. It stresses the importance of individual freedom, choice, and authenticity in navigating a racist society. It acknowledges the reality of suffering and death but also empowers people to find purpose and meaning in their lives, despite adversity. Notable figures in black existentialism include Frantz Fanon and Jean-Paul Sartre.