Summaries of books about Existentialism:
Being and Time
Martin Heidegger
The book introduces the concept of Dasein, an entity that realizes its existence through time, and it explores the nature of being by analyzing existential phenomena such as anxiety, death, and authenticity. It seeks to uncover the fundamental structures of human existence and challenges the traditional metaphysical approach by emphasizing the importance of temporality.
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The Will to Meaning
Foundations and Applications of Logotherapy
Viktor E. Frankl
The book explores the concept of logotherapy, a form of existential analysis that emphasizes the human search for meaning as the primary motivational force in life. It discusses the theoretical foundations of this approach and its practical applications in various settings, including counseling, therapy, and personal growth.
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The Worm at the Core
On the Role of Death in Life
Sheldon Solomon|Jeff Greenberg|Tom Pyszczynski
The book delves into the psychological influence of the fear of death on human behavior, drawing from the principles of terror management theory. It explores how the awareness of mortality shapes our actions, beliefs, and cultural norms, arguing that much of human civilization is an attempt to manage the terror of death.
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Against Happiness
In Praise of Melancholy
Eric G. Wilson
The book argues against the cultural obsession with happiness, positing that melancholy is essential for a full, creative life. It suggests that embracing sadness can lead to deeper self-understanding and the creation of more profound art and literature.
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On Being and Becoming
An Existentialist Approach to Life
Jennifer Anna Gosetti-Ferencei
The book explores existentialist philosophy and its application to understanding the human condition, emphasizing the importance of personal authenticity, freedom, and the creation of meaning in life. It provides a guide to navigating existence by drawing on the works of key existentialist thinkers and addressing themes such as anxiety, death, and the search for self-identity.
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