Existentialism: Sociology and Basic Existentialist Standpoint Essay

There are six themes of existentialism; the themes are classified to characterize the mode of thought of those who would call themselves existentialists. The first theme is known as â€Å"existence precedes essence†, which is the basic existentialist standpoint. The values in a person’s life are not inherited from the society, but are solely based on their consciousness. The second theme is classified as â€Å"anxiety†. The nature of anxiety is like the dread of being nothing. This anxiety motivates existentialists to make something of their lives instead of embracing the pointless of life. The third theme of existentialism displays â€Å"absurdity†, there is no reason for humans to exist, nothing has a point, and it’s rather silly. The fourth theme is known as â€Å"Nothingness†, an existentialist feels as if they are defined only by their being but the beliefs and in situations that one lives can also be defined. An existentialist believes they’re born with nothing: no prepositions can create everything for themselves. Therefore an existentialist must have no structures. â€Å"Death† is known as the fifth theme of existentialism. Death is the final end of existence, thus death is a motivating factor in life. Everyone has a natural fear of death, but we should overcome hat fear, live life to the fullest. Let death happen because it is inevitable. â€Å"Alienation† displays the sixth theme of existentialism. Alienation is the isolation from society and social orders. It is present in society, to those individuals who create and pursue their personal desires, also not majority rules. In this theme, they do not connect with social institutions; therefore an existentialist finds their society empty and meaningless.