Absurdism

Absurdism is a philosophy stating that the efforts of man to find meaning in the universe will ultimately fail because no such meaning exists (at least in relation to man). Absurdism was born of (but should not be confused with) the Existentialist movement, as the French philosopher and writer Albert Camus broke from this philosophical line of thought and published his manuscript The Myth of Sisyphus. The aftermath of World War II provided the social environment that stimulated absurdist views and allowed for their popular development, especially in the devastated country of France.

Related Topics:
Philosophy - Man - Universe - Existentialist - Albert Camus - The Myth of Sisyphus - World War II - France

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Humans historically attempt to find meaning in the universe, according to Absurdism. Yet, the world is irrational and does not conform to the standards or wishes of mankind and so this search is inevitably in vain. The search traditionally leads people down one of two paths: the conclusion that life is meaningless, or the filling of this vacuum by some artificial means (such as religion). The thoughtful human being who recognizes this scenario is then met by the impending philosophical question of 'should we bother living at all, or simply commit suicide?' It would appear that due to the subconscious drive of humans to avoid violent death, suicide has traditionally not won out in this equation.

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However, Camus argues for a third path. This is the acceptance of life being essentially meaningless while continuing to live. Camus describes three archtypes of these people, whom he dubs 'absurd heros': the Rebel, the Artist, and the Don Juan. Also noteworthy is Camus' novel, The Stranger, which depicts an ordinary man's struggle with the absurd.

Related Topics:
The Rebel - Artist - Don Juan - The Stranger

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