Flipped Learning Activity on Existentialism

This blog is written as a task assigned by the head of the Department of English (MKBU), Prof. and Dr. Dilip Barad Sir. Here is the link to the professor's blog for background reading: Click here.

video 1 : 

Existentialism, though popularized by Jean-Paul Sartre, originates with Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche, who emphasized individual existence and subjective experience. Central to existentialist thought are the interconnected concepts of individuality, freedom, and passions, forming a framework that defines human existence. The movement encompasses diverse perspectives, including those of Dostoevsky, Kafka, Heidegger, and Simone de Beauvoir, each contributing unique insights. Albert Camus, for instance, challenges traditional existentialism by advocating for the acceptance of life's inherent absurdity over reliance on a higher power. Existentialism's focus on personal freedom and the search for meaning particularly resonates with youth, addressing themes of despair, freedom, and authenticity. 

                                            

video 2

Albert Camus, in The Myth of Sisyphus, examines the absurdity of human existence, framing suicide as the central philosophical question. He argues that recognizing life's absurdity does not necessitate despair but instead invites deeper contemplation of existence. Camus rejects nihilism, advocating for embracing life despite its inherent meaninglessness. He explores alienation, the illusion of meaning, and the pursuit of rational thought as responses to the absurd. Ultimately, he posits that true philosophical courage lies in living with the absurd, affirming existence through conscious rebellion and engagement with life’s experiences, rather than seeking escape through death.

video 3

The discussion explores Albert Camus’ philosophy of the absurd, emphasizing the tension between human desire for meaning and an indifferent universe. Camus critiques existentialists for evading absurdity through faith or transcendence, terming this "philosophical suicide." He rejects the notion that absurdity leads to higher truths, advocating instead for direct engagement with life without illusions. Acceptance of the absurd demands confronting existence’s meaninglessness without seeking solace in ideology. Camus challenges thinkers like Husserl for abstract evasions, insisting on unwavering awareness of the absurd. Ultimately, he asserts that true authenticity lies in embracing life’s inherent irrationality without resorting to false hope.

video 4

Dada was an avant-garde artistic and literary movement that emerged in Zürich in response to World War I. Rejecting traditional artistic norms, Dadaists embraced absurdity, randomness, and anti-bourgeois sentiments. Influenced by Cubism, Futurism, and Expressionism, they used performance art, poetry, collage, and readymades to challenge societal conventions. Key figures included Marcel Duchamp, Tristan Tzara, and Hannah Höch. The movement dissipated with the rise of Surrealism but laid the foundation for Conceptual Art. Its legacy persists in contemporary art, questioning artistic meaning and authority.

video 5

Existentialism, often perceived as bleak, addresses themes of anxiety, despair, and absurdity to explore human existence. Rather than leading to nihilism, it emphasizes personal responsibility, self-discovery, and meaning-making. Emerging post-World War II, it responded to widespread disillusionment, advocating for individual agency in defining values. Existentialists argue that embracing absurdity fosters liberation rather than despair. The philosophy rejects narcissism, promoting introspection for self-understanding. It also holds therapeutic potential, helping individuals navigate existential struggles. Ultimately, existentialism empowers individuals to confront life’s uncertainties while shaping their own sense of purpose.

video 6

The video explores the philosophical divide between existentialism and nihilism, examining the views of Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Turin, and Camus. Nihilism rejects meaning, whereas existentialism affirms individuality and subjective purpose. Kierkegaard sees nihilism as a loss of self, Nietzsche combats value devaluation, and Camus advocates rebellion against absurdity. Turin’s passive acceptance of meaninglessness contrasts with Camus’s active defiance. The discussion underscores the importance of personal responsibility, engagement with life’s absurdities, and the creation of meaning as an antidote to existential despair, ultimately affirming existentialism’s stance against nihilistic resignation.

video 7

Existentialism, a philosophical movement rather than a rigid doctrine, explores human existence, freedom, and meaning. Rooted in 19th-century thought, it gained prominence through Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Dostoevsky, Sartre, and Camus. Central to existentialism is Sartre’s idea that “existence precedes essence,” emphasizing personal meaning-making. It rejects absolute truths, critiques societal conformity, and views mortality as a catalyst for authenticity. Unlike nihilism, which denies meaning, existentialism asserts individuals can create purpose through conscious choices. Nietzsche’s influence underscores personal virtue and self-definition, encouraging individuals to navigate life’s uncertainties with responsibility and autonomy.

video 8

The video introduces Nietzschean philosophy and existentialism to children through an engaging and playful discussion on rules and morality. It explores the relativity of moral values, encouraging children to question societal norms and consider personal autonomy. The concept of the “Übermensch” is simplified to inspire self-determination. By using relatable examples, the video fosters critical thinking and philosophical inquiry in young audiences. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of philosophy in education while promoting DonorsChoose.org, highlighting the need for resources to support interactive learning and independent thought development in children.

video 9

The speaker reflects on their deep connection with existentialism, emphasizing its intellectual depth and emotional resonance. They highlight existentialism’s honest engagement with life’s complexities, its holistic perspective, and its challenge to conventional wisdom. The philosophy’s embrace of suffering fosters compassion and a richer understanding of existence. The speaker encourages active participation in life, advocating for personal agency and authenticity. Practical steps for integrating existential thought into daily life are provided, promoting critical inquiry, self-determination, and a deeper appreciation of human experience. The video ultimately inspires a courageous and meaningful approach to life’s uncertainties.

video 10

The Crash Course Philosophy video explores the meaning of life through the lens of existentialism, contrasting it with essentialism. It examines Sartre’s notion that “existence precedes essence,” asserting that individuals must create their own purpose. The video discusses “the absurd,” highlighting the tension between humanity’s search for meaning and the universe’s indifference. Sartre’s concepts of freedom, responsibility, and authenticity are emphasized, urging viewers to reject conformity and embrace self-determination. The discussion concludes by encouraging personal meaning-making, positioning existentialist thought as a relevant and empowering philosophical approach in contemporary life.

                              

I like video number nine because it highlights the importance of existentialism in modern times, especially when the search for meaning and purpose in life is at its peak. It adds value by presenting ten key points at the end, clearly emphasizing how significant existentialism is to humanity.

Question : 

1.How does existentialism approach the question of God and belief?

2. How does existentialism differ from nihilism in its approach to meaning and despair?

3.What does Camus mean by rebellion against the absurd, and how does it counter nihilistic consent?

4.What role does existentialism’s brutal honesty play in shaping an individual's understanding of life’s absurdities and challenges?

5.What is "bad faith" according to Sartre, and how does it relate to authenticity in existentialist thought?

References : 

Barad, Dilip. “Existentialism: Video Resources.” Dilip Barad | Teacher Blog, 19 Sept. 2016, blog.dilipbarad.com/2016/09/existentialism-video-resources.html. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025. 

---. “Flipped Learning Network.” Dilip Barad | Teacher Blog, 24 Jan. 2016, blog.dilipbarad.com/2016/01/flipped-learning-network.html. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.