Existentialism For Dummies - Paperback

by Christopher Panza (Author), Gregory Gale (Author)

Have you ever wondered what the phrase "God is dead" means? You'll find out in Existentialism For Dummies, a handy guide to Nietzsche, Sartre, and Kierkegaard's favorite philosophy. See how existentialist ideas have influenced everything from film and literature to world events and discover whether or not existentialism is still relevant today.

You'll find an introduction to existentialism and understand how it fits into the history of philosophy. This insightful guide will expose you to existentialism's ideas about the absurdity of life and the ways that existentialism guides politics, solidarity, and respect for others. There's even a section on religious existentialism. You'll be able to reviewkey existential themes and writings. Find out how to:

• Trace the influence of existentialism
• Distinguish each philosopher's specific ideas
• Explain what it means to say that "God is dead"
• See culture through an existentialist lens
• Understand the existentialist notion of time, finitude, and death
• Navigate the absurdity of life
• Master the art of individuality

Complete with lists of the ten greatest existential films, ten great existential aphorisms, and ten common misconceptions about existentialism, Existentialism For Dummies is your one-stop guide to a very influential school of thought.

Back Jacket

Explore key existential themes and writings

Your friendly guide to finding meaning in a meaningless world

Is God "dead"? If we are alone, how should we act? These are key questions posed by existentialism. This unintimidating guide clearly explains the concepts of this philosophical movement in plain English. You'll meet the thinkers who helped it evolve -- Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, Camus -- and see how existentialist ideas have influenced everything from film and literature to world events.

• Explanations in plain English
• "Get in, get out" information
• Icons and other navigational aids
• Online cheat sheet
• Top ten lists
• A dash of humor and fun

Author Biography

Christopher Panza, PhD, teaches courses on existentialism, ethics, and free will and has published articles on teaching philosophy. Gregory Gale is an adjunct professor of philosophy.